For those born on August 31, the birthstone tradition offers a unique connection to three distinct yet equally fascinating gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these gems carries its own rich history, symbolic meaning, and physical properties that have captivated humans for centuries. This article explores the origins, properties, and cultural significance of the August 31 birthstones, providing a comprehensive look at their roles in both ancient and modern times.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific birth dates has deep roots in various cultures. August 31, in particular, is linked to three gemstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each with its own unique story.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot has been known and valued for over 3,000 years. Ancient Egyptians referred to it as the "gem of the sun," appreciating its bright green color that seemed to shimmer with an inner light. Historical records indicate that the primary source of peridot during ancient times was the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This island, known for its harsh conditions, was the site of ancient Egyptian mining operations that extracted the gemstone from the earth’s mantle. The Egyptians believed that peridot brought protection and good fortune, and it was often used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil.
The etymology of the word "peridot" is somewhat debated. While many scholars believe it comes from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "precious stone," others suggest a Greek origin from peridona, meaning "giving plenty." This latter meaning aligns with the gemstone’s historical association with wealth and prosperity.
Sardonyx: The Royal Stone
Sardonyx, a red and white banded variety of onyx, was the original August 31 birthstone. Known as "Sardinian onyx" in ancient times, this gemstone was highly valued by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It was often carved into intricate cameos and intaglios, used as seals and decorative items. Sardonyx was believed to offer protection from venomous creatures and infectious diseases, and it was also associated with success in legal matters and the attraction of friends.
Christian theologians believed sardonyx represented the strength of spiritual life, and it was considered a symbol of marital happiness. In Rosicrucianism, a 17th-century spiritual and cultural movement in Europe, sardonyx was associated with "victorious ecstasy and rapture," believed to banish grief and woe. Swedish mystic and naturalist Emanuel Swedenborg attributed to sardonyx the meaning of "Love of Good and Light."
Spinel: The Great Imposter
Spinel is a relatively newer addition to the list of August birthstones. Historically, red spinel was often mistaken for ruby and was referred to as "Balas ruby" or "rubicelle." It wasn’t until the late 18th century that French mineralogist Jean-Baptiste Louis Romé de l'Isle proved that spinel and ruby were distinct gemstones. One of the most famous examples of this misidentification is the "Black Prince’s Ruby" in the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom, which is actually a large red spinel.
Spinel is valued for its brilliance and variety of colors, including red, pink, and even blue. Its confusion with ruby in the past meant that it was often undervalued, but it has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to ruby in fine jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the August 31 birthstones has a distinct geological origin and set of sources.
Peridot
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. It is also found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that can originate from outer space. The primary sources of gem-quality peridot today include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. The oldest known source is the Egyptian island of Zabargad, where peridot has been mined for millennia.
Peridot is known for its vivid green color, which is due to the presence of iron in its chemical composition. The color can vary from a pale yellow-green to a deep olive green, depending on the concentration of iron.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz. It is composed of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown quartz) and onyx (a white or black quartz), giving it a distinctive banded appearance. The name "sardonyx" is derived from the Greek words sardis (meaning "reddish") and onyx (meaning "nail"). Sardonyx is found in various locations around the world, including Brazil, India, Mexico, and the United States.
The gemstone is typically formed in sedimentary rock and is often found in geodes and other rock formations. Its durability and ability to take a high polish make it ideal for carving and engraving.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum silicate. It forms in igneous rocks, particularly in metamorphosed limestones and in the crust of the Earth's mantle. Spinel is found in various parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Burma, Ethiopia, and Sri Lanka. The gemstone is known for its wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and even colorless.
Red spinel, in particular, has a long history of being mistaken for ruby. Its high refractive index and brilliance make it a desirable gemstone for jewelry. The clarity and color of spinel can vary, but high-quality stones are rare and valuable.
Gemological Properties
Each of the August 31 birthstones has unique gemological properties that define its appearance, durability, and use in jewelry.
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of magnesium iron silicate (chemical formula: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄). Its color is due to the presence of iron, which gives it a range of green tones. Peridot is pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
The gemstone is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a bright, glassy luster. It is often cut into faceted gemstones, but it can also be found in cabochon form. Peridot is not particularly durable and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and fractures.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. It is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and is a form of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline quartz. The alternating bands of sard and onyx give it a distinctive appearance. Sardonyx is known for its ability to take a high polish and is often used in carvings and intaglios.
The gemstone is typically found in sedimentary rocks and is often mined in Brazil, India, and the United States. Sardonyx is relatively affordable and is often used in affordable jewelry, such as rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Spinel
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it quite durable. It is composed of magnesium aluminum silicate (chemical formula: MgAl₂O₄). The gemstone is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant and sparkling appearance.
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and colorless. The most valuable and sought-after spinels are the deep red and vivid pink varieties. Spinel is often cut into faceted gemstones, and it is gaining popularity in modern jewelry due to its brilliance and affordability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the August 31 birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs.
Peridot
Peridot has been associated with various positive qualities, including renewal, light, and prosperity. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to bring protection and good fortune. The gemstone was also associated with the sun, and it was thought to have the power to bring happiness and vitality to its wearer.
In modern times, peridot is believed to promote inner peace and emotional balance. It is also associated with calming the mind and reducing stress. Some people believe that peridot can help with digestive issues and promote healthy sleep.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has long been associated with protection, particularly from venomous creatures and infectious diseases. It was also believed to offer protection in legal matters and to attract friends and allies. In ancient times, sardonyx was often used as a seal stone, and it was believed to bring success and good fortune.
In Christian theology, sardonyx was associated with the strength of spiritual life. It was believed to promote love in relationships and to bring happiness to marriages. In Rosicrucianism, it was associated with "victorious ecstasy and rapture," and it was believed to banish grief and woe.
Spinel
Spinel has been associated with passion, courage, and protection. In ancient times, red spinel was believed to bring protection and good fortune, and it was often used in amulets and talismans. It was also believed to promote love and romance, and it was often used in jewelry for engagements and weddings.
In modern times, spinel is believed to promote emotional stability and to help with communication. It is also associated with confidence and self-expression. Some people believe that spinel can help with heart issues and can promote a sense of vitality and energy.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of the August 31 birthstones.
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, so it requires gentle handling. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone. Store peridot away from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but it should be dried thoroughly to prevent water spots. Sardonyx should be stored in a dry place to prevent damage.
Spinel
Spinel is a durable gemstone and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic or steam cleaner. Spinel should be stored away from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The August 31 birthstone tradition encompasses three distinct gemstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each with its own rich history, symbolic meaning, and physical properties. Peridot, the "gem of the sun," has been cherished for thousands of years for its vibrant green color and association with protection and prosperity. Sardonyx, the original August 31 birthstone, has a long history of use in ancient civilizations and is associated with protection, friendship, and marital happiness. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, has gained popularity in recent years for its brilliance and variety of colors.
Together, these gemstones offer a unique connection to the past and a meaningful symbol of personal identity for those born on August 31. Whether worn as jewelry or collected as a gemstone, they continue to captivate and inspire.