August is distinguished among the months by its unique association with not one, but three birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these gemstones carries a rich history, distinct gemological properties, and a set of symbolic meanings that have evolved over time. While peridot is the most widely recognized as the primary August birthstone, the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx adds depth and diversity to the tradition. This article explores the origins, characteristics, and cultural significance of these three gemstones, offering a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
A Brief History of August Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months is a centuries-old practice, with roots in ancient texts such as the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Bible. However, the specific gemstones assigned to each month have varied over time and by region. The modern system of birthstones was largely standardized in the early 20th century, and it was in 1912 that peridot was officially designated as the birthstone for August.
Sardonyx was the original August birthstone, with a documented history stretching back over 4,000 years. Known for its banded patterns of red, brown, and white, sardonyx was highly valued in the ancient world, particularly by the Greeks and Romans, who used it for cameos and seals. Over time, peridot—often mistaken for emerald or topaz—emerged as a prominent gemstone and was added to the August birthstone list. Most recently, in 2016, spinel was introduced as the third official August birthstone, reflecting a growing appreciation for this versatile and vibrant gem.
The inclusion of multiple stones for a single month is rare, and August is one of the few months to hold this distinction. This diversity reflects both historical shifts in gemstone appreciation and the evolving standards of the jewelry industry.
Peridot: The Green Fire of the Earth
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine and is distinguished by its yellow-green to greenish-yellow hue. This coloration is due to the presence of iron within its chemical structure. Peridot forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. It can also be found in meteorites, a fact that has contributed to its allure and mystique.
The gemstone is most commonly found in igneous rocks, particularly in areas where lava has cooled and solidified. Notable sources of peridot include the volcanic regions of Arizona and Hawaii in the United States, as well as in Egypt, Myanmar, and various parts of Africa and South America. In some cases, peridot is referred to as “Pele’s Tears,” a name derived from the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes, Pele, who is said to weep tears of molten glass that solidify into the gemstone.
Peridot is also notable for its presence in extraterrestrial material. It has been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, making it one of the few gemstones with an interstellar origin. This connection to space adds to the gemstone’s unique story and appeal.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a relatively common gemstone, though high-quality stones with vivid color and clarity are more rare. It ranks at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry, though it requires some care to avoid scratches and damage. Peridot is typically transparent to translucent and can be found in a range of shades from pale lime green to deep olive.
The gemstone has a vitreous luster and a refractive index of approximately 1.65 to 1.69. It is pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This property, however, is not always visible in peridot due to its uniform coloration.
Peridot is often cut in round brilliant or mixed cuts to enhance its brilliance and color. It can also be found in other styles such as emerald, oval, or cushion cuts, depending on the desired effect and the shape of the rough crystal.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Peridot has a long and fascinating history. In ancient times, it was often mistaken for emerald or topaz, and some of the emerald-like gems in historical collections may actually be peridot. For example, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral contains what were believed to be emeralds, but are now identified as peridot. Similarly, Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have included peridot.
Ancient Egyptians referred to peridot as the “gem of the Sun” and believed it to have protective and healing properties. It was thought to bring clarity of thought and ward off nightmares. In medieval times, peridot was associated with the evening and was sometimes called the “evening emerald” due to its green color and its use in evening wear.
The gemstone was also used in early Christian jewelry, and some of the oldest known examples of peridot jewelry date back to the 4th century. The stone was highly valued for its beauty and was often set in gold or silver settings to enhance its appearance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is considered a stone of strength, happiness, and good fortune. It is believed to promote positive thinking, attract wealth, and encourage harmony in relationships. As a stone connected to light and the sun, it is thought to inspire clear thinking and instill a sense of calm and peace.
In modern metaphysical practices, peridot is used to enhance personal power and confidence. It is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to help with emotional healing and the release of negative emotions. Some practitioners use peridot to encourage a sense of gratitude and appreciation for life’s blessings.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its moderate hardness, peridot should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. It is not suitable for ultrasonic or steam cleaning, as it can be sensitive to high vibrations and heat. Instead, it is best to clean peridot with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Jewelry containing peridot should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent abrasion.
Spinels: The Misunderstood Gem of August
Historical Misidentification
Spinel is a gemstone that has often been mistaken for ruby and sapphire due to its similar color and brilliance. This misidentification has led to its underappreciated status for much of history. Some of the most famous “rubies” in history are now known to be spinels. For example, the Black Prince’s Ruby, set in the British Imperial State Crown, is actually a large red spinel. Similarly, the “Timur Ruby,” another famous red gemstone in the British Crown jewels, is also a spinel.
The confusion between spinel and ruby was due to their similar appearance and the fact that both can display a deep red color. However, spinel has a different crystal structure and chemical composition, and it is generally less valuable than ruby. The introduction of spinel as an August birthstone in 2016 marked a turning point in its recognition and appreciation.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum oxide and can occur in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black. The most valuable spinels are the red and blue varieties, which can rival the color of ruby and sapphire. Spinel forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is found in various parts of the world, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
The gemstone is typically transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. It ranks at 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a durable stone suitable for use in jewelry. Spinel is often cut in round, oval, or cushion shapes to highlight its brilliance and color.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Spinel has a rich history, particularly in the royal courts of Europe and Asia. Its use in jewelry dates back to ancient times, and it was highly valued for its beauty and rarity. Despite being misidentified as ruby for centuries, spinel has been a favorite of collectors and jewelers for its vibrant colors and excellent clarity.
In recent years, spinel has gained popularity as a more affordable alternative to ruby and sapphire. Its affordability and stunning appearance make it an excellent choice for those who want the look of a precious gemstone without the high price tag.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Spinel is believed to bring joy, vitality, and emotional stability. It is associated with love, passion, and the heart, and is thought to enhance relationships and encourage emotional openness. In some traditions, spinel is considered a stone of protection and is worn to ward off negative energy and promote inner strength.
Modern metaphysical practitioners also associate spinel with the heart and solar plexus chakras. It is believed to help with emotional healing, personal power, and confidence. Spinel is also thought to encourage creativity and inspiration, making it a popular choice for artists and writers.
Care and Cleaning
Spinel is a durable gemstone that can be cleaned with standard jewelry cleaning methods. It is safe to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, though care should be taken with any gemstone that has inclusions or is heat-sensitive. To clean spinel, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Jewelry containing spinel should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Stone of August
Historical Significance
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone and has a documented history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz, and is characterized by its banded pattern of red, brown, and white. The red coloration is due to the presence of iron, while the white portions are composed of quartz.
Sardonyx was highly valued in the ancient world, particularly by the Greeks and Romans, who used it to carve cameos, seals, and amulets. It was believed to bring victory in battle, enhance communication skills, and provide protection. The stone was often carved into intricate designs and worn as jewelry or carried as a talisman.
In medieval Europe, sardonyx was associated with strength, courage, and protection. It was used in various forms of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and brooches. The stone was also believed to have healing properties and was used in talismans to ward off illness and misfortune.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sardonyx is a type of onyx, which is a variety of chalcedony. It is formed through the deposition of silica in sedimentary rocks, often in the presence of iron. The red and brown bands in sardonyx are caused by the presence of iron oxides, while the white bands are pure quartz.
The stone is found in various parts of the world, including India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States. It is typically found in sedimentary rocks and is often mined in alluvial deposits. Sardonyx is relatively hard, ranking at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, and is suitable for use in jewelry. It is typically cut in cabochons or beads, as its banded pattern is best appreciated in these forms.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx is believed to bring strength, courage, and protection. It is associated with the root and solar plexus chakras and is thought to enhance personal power and confidence. The stone is also believed to promote communication and encourage clear thinking.
In some traditions, sardonyx is used as a protective stone and is worn to ward off negative energy and promote emotional stability. It is also believed to enhance leadership qualities and encourage decisiveness.
Care and Cleaning
Sardonyx is a durable gemstone that can be cleaned with standard jewelry cleaning methods. It is safe to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, though care should be taken with any gemstone that has inclusions or is heat-sensitive. To clean sardonyx, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Jewelry containing sardonyx should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. Peridot, with its fiery green hue and volcanic origins, is the most widely recognized as the primary August birthstone. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, has recently gained recognition for its vibrant colors and versatility. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, carries a long and storied history, with roots in ancient jewelry and amulet traditions.
These three gemstones not only reflect the diversity of the birthstone tradition but also highlight the evolving standards of the jewelry industry. Whether worn for their beauty, their historical significance, or their symbolic meaning, the August birthstones are a testament to the enduring appeal of gemstones across cultures and centuries.