August is a month rich in symbolic and geological treasures. While it is often associated with the warmth of summer and meteor showers, it is also celebrated for its unique selection of birthstones. Unlike most months that have one or two official birthstones, August is distinguished by the presence of three—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx. Each of these gemstones carries a compelling history, captivating beauty, and a range of symbolic meanings that reflect the multifaceted character of August.
This article delves into the world of August’s birthstones, exploring their origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. Whether you are an August-born individual, a gemstone enthusiast, or a curious reader, you will find the following pages to be a rich source of insight into the allure and importance of these three remarkable stones.
History and Lore of August Birthstones
The tradition of birthstones dates back thousands of years and is believed to have originated in biblical times, with references to the twelve stones of the High Priest’s breastplate. Over time, various cultures have added their own interpretations and additions to the list. In the modern era, the selection of birthstones has been influenced by both historical records and the evolving tastes of the jewelry industry.
August is one of the few months to have three officially recognized birthstones, a distinction that reflects its rich gemological heritage and the diversity of stones that have been historically associated with it. Peridot and Sardonyx were the first to be designated as August’s birthstones, with Spinel being added more recently in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America.
The Evolution of August Birthstones
Historically, Sardonyx was the sole August birthstone for centuries. Known for its banded red and white layers, Sardonyx was highly valued in ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece, often used in seals, amulets, and rings. Its durability and ornamental appeal made it a popular choice among royalty and the elite.
However, due to its similar color to Peridot, which is a vibrant yellow-green to greenish-yellow gemstone, confusion often arose between the two. As a result, Peridot was added as a second official August birthstone in the 20th century.
The most recent addition to the August birthstone list is Spinel, introduced in 2016. Spinel, particularly the red variety, was once mistaken for ruby and was widely used in royal jewelry throughout history. Its vibrant colors, clarity, and brilliance made it a prized gemstone before its identity was fully understood and appreciated.
This evolution of August’s birthstones reflects not only the changing appreciation of gemstones over time but also the dynamic nature of the jewelry industry in recognizing and celebrating lesser-known yet beautiful stones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of August’s three birthstones has a unique geological background and source of origin, shaped by the Earth's natural processes and, in some cases, even the cosmos.
Peridot
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate. Its formation is closely linked to volcanic activity and the Earth’s mantle. Peridot is often found in mafic igneous rocks—rocks formed from the solidification of magma. It is also notable for its extraterrestrial origins; peridot has been discovered in meteorites, particularly those that have fallen to Earth from space.
The most significant source of peridot is Zabargad Island (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, which has been a major mining site for centuries. Other notable sources include Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii in the United States, as well as Brazil, China, and Pakistan.
Peridot forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, often being carried to the Earth's surface through lava flows. This process explains why peridot is often found in areas with volcanic activity. The gemstone’s color, which ranges from yellow-green to deep green, is due to its iron content.
Spinel
Spinel is a oxide mineral composed of aluminum and oxygen, with trace elements such as magnesium, iron, chromium, or cobalt contributing to its wide range of colors. Spinel can be found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and it is often formed under high-pressure conditions.
The most famous source of red spinel is Burma (Myanmar), where it was historically mistaken for ruby. Other notable sources include Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Afghanistan. Spinel is also found in alluvial deposits, where it is weathered from its host rock and transported by water.
Spinel is known for its brilliance and fire, rivaling that of ruby and sapphire. Its clarity and durability make it an excellent gemstone for use in jewelry.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, a form of microcrystalline quartz. It is composed of layers of sard, a reddish-brown or orange variety of chalcedony, and onyx, a white or black chalcedony. These alternating bands give sardonyx its distinctive and attractive appearance.
Sardonyx is typically formed in cavities of volcanic rock, where silica-rich fluids deposit layers of chalcedony over time. The most important sources of sardonyx are India, Brazil, and the United States, with historical deposits also found in Persia (modern-day Iran) and Egypt.
Sardonyx has been used for millennia in cameos, seals, and amulets due to its durability and the ease with which it can be carved. Its popularity in ancient times is evidenced by the numerous sardonyx rings and signet seals found in archaeological sites.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of August’s birthstones provides insight into their beauty, durability, and suitability for use in jewelry.
Peridot
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Color | Yellow-green to greenish-yellow |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 – 1.70 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.32 – 3.37 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | Perfect in one direction |
| Inclusions | Common, including two-phase inclusions of gas and liquid |
Peridot is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a cleavage that makes it somewhat susceptible to chipping. It is best suited for pendant or earrings rather than rings, where it may be exposed to impacts. Its brilliance and color make it a favorite in vintage and Bohemian-style jewelry.
Spinel
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 8 |
| Color | Red, pink, blue, purple, orange, yellow, green |
| Refractive Index | 1.718 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.6 – 4.0 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | None |
| Inclusions | Rare to absent |
Spinel is harder than peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 8, and it does not have cleavage, making it more durable and ideal for use in rings and bracelets. Spinel is known for its vivid colors and high refractive index, which contribute to its exceptional brilliance and fire.
Sardonyx
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ (quartz) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Color | Banded red, white, or black |
| Refractive Index | 1.48 – 1.53 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.6 – 2.64 |
| Transparency | Translucent |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Cleavage | None |
| Inclusions | Rare to absent |
Sardonyx is a very durable stone, making it suitable for daily wear in jewelry such as rings and signet rings. Its banded appearance makes it ideal for cameo carvings and intaglios, where the contrasting colors can be highlighted. Sardonyx is also known for its protective and grounding properties in metaphysical traditions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
August’s birthstones are not only prized for their beauty but also for the symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties attributed to them in various cultures and historical periods.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, protection, and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off nightmares and promote peaceful sleep. It was also used as a stone of love and loyalty, making it a popular gift among lovers.
In modern metaphysical practices, peridot is considered a stone of abundance and prosperity. It is thought to enhance self-esteem and encourage personal growth. Peridot is also believed to stimulate creativity and inspire action, making it a valuable companion for those seeking motivation and inspiration.
Spinel
Spinel is a stone of vitality and emotional strength. Historically, it was believed to protect against harm and bring about good fortune. In ancient Persian and Chinese traditions, spinel was used as a stone of protection and healing, particularly for those suffering from emotional or physical ailments.
In modern metaphysical beliefs, spinel is considered a stone of passion and courage. It is thought to enhance one’s inner fire, boost confidence, and support emotional healing. Spinel is also believed to foster compassion and understanding, making it a valuable stone for those seeking to improve their relationships.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has a rich history of symbolic and protective properties. In ancient Egypt and Rome, it was used as a protective talisman, particularly for travelers and warriors. It was believed to ward off negative energy and bring about success and good fortune.
In modern metaphysical traditions, sardonyx is considered a stone of strength, discipline, and perseverance. It is often used to support one’s willpower and motivation, especially when facing challenges or making difficult decisions. Sardonyx is also believed to enhance one’s ability to overcome obstacles and stay focused on long-term goals.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of August’s birthstones. The care instructions vary slightly depending on the gemstone’s hardness, cleavage, and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Peridot
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Peridot is sensitive to acids and solvents, so it should be cleaned with mild soap and water.
- Avoid high heat: Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause color fading or internal fractures.
- Avoid impacts: Due to its perfect cleavage, peridot is susceptible to chipping. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
- Professional cleaning: It is advisable to clean peridot professionally or with ultrasonic cleaners designed for soft gemstones.
Spinel
- Durability: Spinel is harder than peridot and lacks cleavage, making it more durable and suitable for daily wear.
- Cleaning: Spinel can be cleaned with warm, soapy water or ultrasonic cleaners.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: While more resilient than peridot, spinel should still be avoided from exposure to strong acids or solvents.
Sardonyx
- Durability: Sardonyx is very durable and can be worn daily without fear of damage.
- Cleaning: Sardonyx can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: While sardonyx is not sensitive to chemicals, it is still advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh solvents.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—represent a fascinating blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. Each of these gemstones has a unique geological origin, cultural significance, and metaphysical meaning, making them not only valuable in the world of jewelry but also rich in meaning and tradition.
From the vibrant green of peridot, formed in the Earth’s mantle or even in space, to the brilliant red of spinel, once mistaken for ruby and cherished by royalty, and the banded elegance of sardonyx, used for millennia in seals and amulets, August’s birthstones offer a rich tapestry of gemological and cultural heritage.
Whether you are an August-born individual, a gemstone enthusiast, or simply someone drawn to the beauty of these stones, understanding their properties, history, and symbolism adds a new dimension to their appreciation. These gemstones are not only stunning to behold but also carry stories of the past and meanings that resonate in the present.
As we continue to discover and celebrate the unique qualities of each gemstone, we are reminded of the enduring connection between humans and the natural world—a connection that is beautifully captured in the sparkling allure of August’s birthstones.