August is one of the most unique months in the birthstone calendar, boasting not one, but three official birthstones: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel. These gemstones each carry their own rich histories, distinct geological properties, and unique cultural and spiritual significance. From the fiery green glow of peridot to the zebra-like banding of sardonyx and the vibrant versatility of spinel, August birthstones offer a diverse and captivating selection for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and historians alike.
This article delves into the fascinating world of August’s birthstones, exploring their origins, properties, symbolism, and modern relevance. Through a comprehensive and factual lens, we examine what makes these gems stand out in the world of jewelry and gemology.
Introduction
August is one of only three months in the traditional birthstone calendar—alongside June and December—to be represented by more than one gemstone. The inclusion of peridot, sardonyx, and spinel reflects the evolving nature of gemstone appreciation and the growing demand for diverse and meaningful choices in jewelry.
Each of these stones has a long and storied history. Sardonyx, the oldest of the three, appears in biblical texts and was historically associated with protection and power. Peridot, known for its vibrant green hues, was once mistaken for emerald and has been revered across various cultures for its connection to the sun. Spinel, though relatively new to the birthstone roster, has recently gained popularity due to its beauty and versatility.
This article provides an in-depth look at these three August birthstones, covering their geological properties, historical significance, cultural symbolism, and practical care tips. By the end, readers will have a deeper understanding of why these gems are cherished and how they can be best appreciated.
History and Lore
The Origins of August Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back thousands of years, with early references appearing in ancient texts and religious writings. The concept of birthstones was formalized in the 1912 American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) list, which assigned each month a single gemstone. However, in 2016, the list was updated to include spinel as an additional August birthstone, expanding the range of choices available to consumers.
The original August birthstone was sardonyx, a gem that has been mentioned in the Bible and was believed to have formed part of the foundation stones of Jerusalem. The gem is composed of alternating bands of sard and onyx, both types of chalcedony, and is often characterized by its reddish zebra-like striping. Sardonyx has been mined in various locations around the world, including India, Brazil, and the United States.
Peridot, the second of August’s birthstones, has a long and colorful history. It was known to the ancient Egyptians, who referred to it as “the gem of the sun” and believed it could glow in the dark. Peridot was also used by the Romans and Chinese in their jewelry and ceremonial objects. Its name is thought to derive from the Greek word peridona, meaning “giving plenty,” and it was often associated with the lush green fields of summer.
Spinel, the newest addition to the August birthstone list, was historically confused with ruby due to its similar red color. It has only recently gained recognition for its beauty and clarity, and its inclusion in the birthstone list in 2016 reflects the growing appreciation for this versatile gem.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine and is formed under extreme geological conditions. It is typically found in the Earth's mantle, brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot can also be found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that originate from space.
The most famous source of peridot is the Red Sea island of Zabargad, where it has been mined for centuries. Other notable sources include Arizona, the Canary Islands, and Burma. Peridot is known for its range of green tones, from yellowish green to olive green, with the most desirable stones exhibiting a vivid, lime-green color.
Peridot is relatively hard, with a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. It is also quite durable, with no cleavage and only a slight tendency to fracture under impact.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz. It is composed of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a white or pale-colored chalcedony), giving it a distinctive banded appearance. Sardonyx is known for its durability and is often carved into intricate designs and pendants.
The gem is primarily found in India, but it can also be mined in Brazil, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Madagascar, and the United States. Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in rings and other types of jewelry.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum silicate and is known for its wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, and even colorless. It is a relatively common mineral, but high-quality spinel with vibrant color and clarity is rare and highly valued.
Spinel is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is mined in countries such as Myanmar, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than peridot and suitable for use in a wide variety of jewelry.
Spinel was once mistaken for ruby and was used in royal jewelry collections. However, with the advancement of gemological science, it has gained recognition for its beauty and is now appreciated for its own unique qualities.
Gemological Properties
Peridot
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Mg₂SiO₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Color | Yellow-green to greenish-yellow |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.654–1.690 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.30–3.45 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | None |
| Inclusions | Common |
Peridot is known for its bright green color and is often found in a wide range of shades. It is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry. It has no cleavage, meaning it does not have a natural tendency to break along specific planes, which makes it more durable.
Sardonyx
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ (quartz) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Color | Reddish-brown with white bands |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.48–1.53 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.58–2.64 |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Cleavage | None |
| Inclusions | Rare |
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony and is composed of alternating layers of sard and onyx. It is known for its durability and is often carved into intricate designs. It has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale and is suitable for use in rings and other types of jewelry.
Spinel
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Crystal System | Cubic |
| Color | Red, pink, blue, colorless |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 |
| Refractive Index | 1.718 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.6–4.0 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | Octahedral |
| Inclusions | Rare |
Spinel is a versatile gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors. It is known for its hardness and durability, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It has a refractive index of 1.718 and a specific gravity of 3.6–4.0. Spinel has octahedral cleavage, meaning it can break along specific planes, so care should be taken when setting and wearing spinel jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, prosperity, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was known as “the gem of the sun” and was believed to have healing properties. Some cultures believed that peridot could help with emotional healing and was a stone of renewal.
In medieval times, peridot was believed to promote fertility and was worn by women during childbirth. It was also thought to bring abundance and good fortune, particularly in agriculture. In some cultures, peridot was believed to be a stone of transformation, helping individuals to let go of negative emotions and embrace new beginnings.
Modern metaphysical practitioners often use peridot for its calming and energizing properties. It is believed to help with stress relief, emotional balance, and enhancing one's sense of vitality.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has been associated with protection, courage, and success. It was historically worn by warriors and leaders to provide strength and confidence. In ancient times, sardonyx was believed to offer protection from negative energies and was often used in amulets and talismans.
Sardonyx is also associated with discipline and self-control. It is believed to help individuals stay focused and grounded, making it a popular stone for those seeking to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. In some traditions, sardonyx is considered a stone of leadership and is worn by those in positions of authority.
Modern practitioners believe that sardonyx can help with communication and self-expression, making it a useful stone for those who struggle with public speaking or expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively new addition to the birthstone list, but it has a long history of being associated with love, passion, and protection. In ancient times, red spinel was mistaken for ruby and was used in royal jewelry. It was believed to bring courage and strength to the wearer.
Spinel is often associated with vitality and energy. It is believed to help individuals feel more confident and empowered. In some cultures, spinel is considered a stone of healing and is used to treat ailments of the heart and circulatory system.
Modern metaphysical practitioners often use spinel for its emotional and spiritual benefits. It is believed to help with emotional healing, enhance intuition, and promote inner strength.
Care and Cleaning
General Care Guidelines
While all three August birthstones are relatively durable, proper care is essential to ensure their longevity and beauty. Here are some general care guidelines for each gemstone:
Peridot: Peridot is a relatively hard gemstone, but it should still be handled with care. It is not recommended for harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. To clean peridot jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid exposing peridot to sudden temperature changes or extreme heat.
Sardonyx: Sardonyx is a durable gemstone with no cleavage, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it should be cleaned with care to avoid damaging the bands. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean sardonyx jewelry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
Spinel: Spinel is a very durable gemstone with a high hardness on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with mild soap and a soft cloth. Spinel can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but care should be taken if the stone has a fracture or is of lower quality, as it may be damaged.
Storage Tips
When not in use, it is best to store August birthstone jewelry in a soft cloth or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. If multiple pieces of jewelry are being stored together, it is advisable to keep them separate to avoid any potential damage from friction or contact with other gemstones.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. From the vibrant green glow of peridot to the striking banding of sardonyx and the versatile colors of spinel, these gems have captivated people for centuries.
Peridot, with its connection to the sun and its association with prosperity and healing, has long been a cherished gemstone. Sardonyx, with its rich history and association with protection and courage, has been a symbol of strength and leadership. Spinel, though a newer addition to the birthstone list, has quickly gained popularity due to its beauty and versatility.
For those born in August, these gemstones offer a wide range of options to choose from, each with its own unique qualities and meanings. Whether used in jewelry, as a collectible, or for its metaphysical properties, these stones are a testament to the enduring appeal of gemstones and their significance in human history.