August is a month rich in celestial events, cultural traditions, and, most notably, gemstone lore. Historically and culturally, the month of August is associated with a remarkable trio of birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. These gemstones have not only shaped the identity of those born in this month but also reflect the evolving traditions of gemology, jewelry, and symbolism over centuries.
This article explores the traditional August birthstones, focusing on their historical significance, geological properties, cultural and spiritual meanings, and modern relevance in the world of gemstones. With multiple stones representing a single month, August offers a unique opportunity to examine how birthstone traditions have developed and diversified over time.
Introduction
August is one of the few months in the calendar that boasts three official birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. This multiplicity arises from the interplay of ancient, traditional, and modern gemstone traditions, each contributing to the evolving narrative of what constitutes an authentic August birthstone.
Peridot, the most widely recognized and modernly accepted August birthstone, is known for its vibrant green color and its connection to positive energy and clarity. Sardonyx, with its banded patterns and protective qualities, is an ancient gemstone that once held sole claim to the August birthstone designation. Spinel, the most recent addition, was officially recognized in 2016 and is valued for its color versatility and brilliance, often mistaken for ruby or sapphire in the past.
This article delves into the properties, history, symbolism, and care of these gemstones, drawing from authoritative and historical sources, including the GIA, Crystal Life, My Irish Jeweler, and Sylvie Jewelry. The discussion is grounded in factual, verified information, with attention to scientific accuracy and cultural context, providing a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore of August Birthstones
The Evolution of August Birthstone Traditions
The tradition of associating gemstones with birth months is a medieval practice with roots in ancient cultures, including Hebrew, Roman, and Ayurvedic traditions. The earliest known references to birthstones appear in the Biblical Book of Exodus, where the High Priest’s breastplate was adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
However, the modern concept of birthstones as we know it today began to take shape in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in Europe and North America. Different regions developed their own lists of birthstones, leading to variations in the stones associated with each month.
August is a particularly interesting case, as it is one of the few months with multiple stones listed as its birthstones. This reflects the historical evolution of gemstone preferences, availability, and cultural shifts in how gemstones are perceived and used.
Peridot: The "Evening Emerald"
Peridot is widely considered the primary or modern August birthstone, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom. Known for its yellowish-green to olive-green color, peridot is a silicate mineral and the only gemstone that occurs in only one color.
Historically, peridot has been revered in many cultures:
- Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the Sun", believing it carried the power of the sun and brought good fortune and vitality.
- Native Hawaiians associate peridot with Pele, the volcano goddess, and refer to it as "Pele’s Tears", as it is sometimes found in volcanic lava.
- Ancient Romans and Greeks believed peridot brought protection and joy, often using it in amulets and talismans.
Peridot was also mistaken for emerald in the past, with some notable historical examples such as the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, which was once believed to contain emeralds but was later identified as containing peridot.
Sardonyx: The Ancient August Birthstone
Sardonyx is a banded variety of chalcedony, composed of quartz and cryptocrystalline silica, with alternating bands of red and white or yellow and white. It was the original August birthstone, with ancient roots dating back over 4,000 years.
Sardonyx was highly valued in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where it was used in seals, rings, and protective amulets. The gem was believed to enhance confidence, courage, and vitality, and was often worn by soldiers and warriors for protection and strength.
Its banded structure made it ideal for intaglio and cameo carvings, and it was commonly used in jewelry and ceremonial objects. Sardonyx was also believed to promote positive energy and optimism, making it a powerful stone for personal and spiritual growth.
Spinel: The Modern August Birthstone
Spinel is a silicate mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and black. It was only officially recognized as an August birthstone in 2016, marking a modern expansion of the traditional list.
Historically, spinel was often mistaken for ruby, especially in antique jewelry and royal collections, due to its similar color and brilliance. Some of the most famous "rubies" in history, including the "Black Prince’s Ruby" in the British Imperial State Crown, are actually spinel.
Spinel is a relatively new and underappreciated gemstone, but it is gaining popularity due to its beauty, durability, and affordability compared to more traditional gemstones like ruby and sapphire. It is also chemically distinct from ruby, despite their similar appearance.
Spinel is valued for its clarity, hardness, and vibrant colors, making it a versatile gemstone for jewelry and decorative purposes. It is also believed to carry positive energy and emotional healing properties, similar to other gemstones in the August birthstone lineup.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: The Green Gem of the Earth and Beyond
Peridot is a naturally occurring silicate mineral, formed from the cooling of magma deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, making it one of the few gemstones that can be found in meteorites as well as on Earth.
Peridot is primarily found in mafic igneous rocks, such as peridotite and basalt, and is often associated with volcanic regions. Some of the major sources of high-quality peridot include:
- Zambia – Produces some of the richest and most vibrant peridot in the world.
- Nigeria – Known for its fine yellowish-green peridot.
- United States (Arizona and New Mexico) – Produces olivine-rich peridot.
- India and China – Also known for commercial-grade peridot.
Peridot is also found in meteorites, particularly in H4 chondrites, and is sometimes referred to as "space gemstone" due to its extraterrestrial origin.
Sardonyx: The Banded Stone of Ancient Craftsmanship
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of silica, and is composed of microscopic quartz crystals. It is formed in sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, where iron-rich solutions deposit red or brown bands over white or yellow layers.
Sardonyx is highly durable and was historically used in seals, rings, and intaglios due to its ability to hold fine details in carvings. It is also relatively affordable, making it a popular gemstone for jewelry and decorative objects.
Major sources of sardonyx include:
- India – Known for producing high-quality banded sardonyx.
- Brazil – A major producer of commercial-grade sardonyx.
- Nepal and Indonesia – Also known for fine sardonyx deposits.
Spinel: The Versatile and Vibrant Gem
Spinel is a silicate mineral composed of magnesium aluminum oxide. It is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in granite and basalt. Unlike peridot and sardonyx, spinel is chemically distinct and does not occur in meteorites.
Spinel is known for its wide range of colors, which are caused by different trace elements:
- Iron – Produces red and orange spinel.
- Chromium – Produces vivid red and pink spinel.
- Cobalt – Produces blue spinel.
Spinel is found in several major gemstone-producing countries, including:
- Afghanistan – Known for high-quality red and pink spinel.
- Myanmar (Burma) – Produces fine ruby-colored spinel.
- Vietnam and Tanzania – Known for blue and pink spinel.
- Brazil and Madagascar – Major producers of commercial-grade spinel.
Spinel is harder than sardonyx and slightly softer than peridot, making it durable enough for everyday wear but requiring careful handling.
Gemological Properties of the August Birthstones
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Color Ranges | Refractive Index | Mohs Hardness | Specific Gravity | Birefringence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Mg₁.₈–₂.₂Fe₀.₂–₀.₈SiO₄ | Yellowish green to olive | 1.65–1.69 | 6.5–7 | 3.34 | 0.035–0.038 |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ | Banded red/white or yellow/white | N/A | 6.5–7 | 2.58–2.64 | N/A |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Red, pink, blue, orange | 1.718–1.732 | 8 | 3.99–4.10 | N/A |
Peridot
Peridot is a single-color gemstone, with no colorless or blue varieties. Its color is caused by iron, which gives it a yellowish-green to olive-green appearance. The deeper the green, the more iron is present in the stone.
Peridot is relatively soft (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale) and has a high birefringence, which means it can split light into two rays, causing a double image effect when viewed through the stone. This can affect clarity and brilliance, but peridot is still highly valued for its vibrant color and affordability.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, with alternating layers of red and white or yellow and white. Its lack of birefringence makes it ideal for carving and engraving, and its moderate hardness (6.5–7) makes it durable for jewelry use.
Sardonyx is often used in intaglio and cameo carvings, where its banded structure allows for contrasting designs. It is also used in ring settings, pendants, and seals, particularly in historical and antique jewelry.
Spinel
Spinel is a very durable gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for daily wear. It is translucent to transparent, with high refractive index and excellent brilliance.
Spinel is often heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity, but it is still naturally beautiful and highly sought after. It is chemically distinct from ruby, despite their similar appearance, and is now gaining recognition as a unique and valuable gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: The Stone of Abundance and Joy
Peridot is a stone of optimism and clarity, believed to enhance self-responsibility, forgiveness, and personal growth. It is also associated with abundance and protection, making it a powerful stone for those seeking to manifest their goals and dreams.
In ancient Egypt, peridot was believed to be formed from the tears of the sun god Ra, and was used to ward off nightmares and bring good fortune. In Hindu and Ayurvedic traditions, peridot is associated with the solar plexus chakra, enhancing confidence, vitality, and emotional balance.
Modern metaphysical practitioners use peridot to promote inner peace, emotional healing, and positive energy, making it a versatile and powerful gemstone.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Strength and Protection
Sardonyx is a stone of strength, courage, and protection. It is believed to enhance confidence, optimism, and vitality, and was historically used by soldiers and warriors to protect them in battle.
The banded structure of sardonyx is thought to represent the balance between strength and gentleness, making it a stone of duality and harmony. It is also associated with the root and heart chakras, promoting grounding, emotional stability, and personal power.
Sardonyx is often used to enhance communication, leadership, and decision-making, making it a valuable tool for those in positions of authority or leadership.
Spinel: The Stone of Passion and Healing
Spinel is a stone of passion, vitality, and emotional healing. It is believed to enhance courage, confidence, and personal power, and is often used in jewelry and talismans to promote emotional balance and inner strength.
Red spinel, in particular, is associated with the heart and root chakras, and is believed to stimulate vitality, love, and compassion. Blue spinel is associated with the throat and third eye chakras, promoting clarity, intuition, and communication.
Spinel is also believed to carry the energy of the sun and moon, making it a stone of duality and balance. It is often used in jewelry and meditation to promote emotional healing and spiritual growth.
Care and Cleaning of August Birthstones
Peridot
Peridot is relatively soft (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale), so it should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to heat and chemicals, so it should not be exposed to harsh cleaning agents or high temperatures.
To clean peridot jewelry, use warm water and mild soap, and gently brush the gemstone with a soft toothbrush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can cause microscopic fractures in the stone.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is durable and resistant to scratches, but it should still be handled with care to avoid chipping or cracking. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals, making it easier to clean than peridot.
To clean sardonyx jewelry, use warm water and mild soap, and gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is not necessary for regular maintenance.
Spinel
Spinel is very durable (8 on the Mohs scale), making it ideal for daily wear. It is resistant to scratches and damage, and can be cleaned easily with warm water and mild soap.
Spinel can be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is not necessary for regular use. Avoid exposing spinel to high heat, as it can cause color fading or damage in some varieties.
Conclusion
August is a unique and fascinating month in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with three distinct gemstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each of these stones carries its own history, symbolism, and properties, reflecting the evolution of gemstone traditions over time.
Peridot is the most widely recognized and modern August birthstone, valued for its vibrant green color and positive energy. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, is a durable and historically significant gemstone known for its banded patterns and protective qualities. Spinel, the most recent addition, is a beautiful and versatile gemstone that is gaining popularity due to its brilliance, color range, and durability.
Together, these gemstones offer a rich and diverse selection for those born in August, allowing them to choose a stone that best reflects their personality and values. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, jewelry buyer, or student of gemology, the August birthstones provide a fascinating glimpse into the history, science, and symbolism of gemstones.