Birthstones are more than just pretty gems—they carry centuries of history, symbolism, and scientific intrigue. Among the 12 birthstones associated with the months of the year, August and September are particularly rich in both variety and cultural significance. August is represented by three gemstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel, while September is symbolized by sapphire, a gemstone with a royal and timeless reputation. This article delves into the geological properties, historical background, cultural symbolism, and modern significance of these gemstones, drawing exclusively on verified information from authoritative sources.
History and Lore
August Birthstones: A Trio of Tradition and Evolution
The selection of multiple birthstones for a single month is relatively rare, and August is a unique case in this regard. The official list of August birthstones includes peridot, sardonyx, and spinel, each of which has a distinct historical background and cultural significance.
Peridot: The Traditional August Birthstone
Peridot is the most ancient and traditional of the August birthstones. Known for its vibrant green to yellow-green hues, peridot has been revered for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians referred to it as "the stone of the sun" and believed it had the power to ward off evil spirits. In fact, peridot was often used in jewelry and amulets for protection during the night.
The name "peridot" comes from the French word perit, which is derived from the Arabic faridat, meaning "treasure." This association with treasure and fortune has made peridot a symbol of prosperity and good luck in many cultures.
Peridot has also been historically associated with the sun and light. Some legends suggest that peridot was the gemstone used to make the golden apples in the Garden of the Hesperides, a mythical place in Greek mythology.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Strength and Clarity
Sardonyx, a type of onyx with a reddish-brown base and white bands, has been used in ancient cultures for both decorative and spiritual purposes. It was a popular gemstone among the Romans and was often carved into cameos and intaglios. Sardonyx was believed to bring strength and clarity to the mind, helping the wearer to overcome obstacles and maintain emotional balance.
The stone has also been associated with protection and was often used in protective amulets. Some sources suggest that sardonyx was worn by warriors to enhance courage and prevent misfortune in battle.
Spinel: The Modern Addition to August
Spinel is a relatively recent addition to the list of August birthstones. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) officially included spinel as the third birthstone for August. This decision was driven by the growing popularity of the gemstone in the jewelry industry and its wide range of colors, which include vibrant reds, pinks, oranges, and even blue and green.
Spinel has a fascinating history, often being mistaken for ruby in ancient times due to its striking red color. In fact, several famous "rubies" in royal collections, such as the Black Prince's Ruby, are actually spinel. This gemstone was highly prized by royalty and was used to fund battles and adorn crowns.
Spinel’s inclusion in the list of August birthstones reflects its increasing recognition in gemology and its appeal to modern consumers. It is known for its brilliance, durability, and affordability compared to other precious gems.
September Birthstone: The Regal Sapphire
Sapphire is the official birthstone for September and has a rich and regal history. The term "sapphire" comes from the Greek word sappheiros, which referred to the blue variety of corundum. While blue is the most well-known color of sapphire, the gemstone can also be found in shades of pink, yellow, green, and even colorless.
Sapphires have long been associated with nobility and spiritual purity. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans believed that sapphires protected the wearer from harm and envy. The stone was also believed to symbolize truth, sincerity, and faithfulness—qualities often associated with royalty and the clergy.
In medieval Europe, sapphires were worn by clergymen to symbolize Heaven. Some traditions even claimed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color. Sapphires were also believed to have healing properties, particularly in treating diseases of the eye and plague.
The September birthstone has also been linked to romance and loyalty. It is often used in engagement rings and wedding jewelry, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: A Volcanic Gem
Peridot is a silicate mineral, chemically classified as olivine, and is commonly formed in volcanic and metamorphic rocks. It is typically found in mafic igneous rocks, such as basalt, and is often brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Peridot can also be found in impact craters, where it is exposed due to the shock of meteorite impacts.
High-quality peridot is most commonly sourced from Egypt, where it has been mined for centuries. Other notable sources include Brazil, Myanmar, China, and the United States. The color of peridot is primarily due to the presence of iron, with the most desirable specimens having a rich green hue.
Peridot is a relatively durable gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry. However, it is more brittle than some other gemstones and should be handled with care to avoid chipping.
Sardonyx: A Banded Agate
Sardonyx is a form of banded chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz. It is composed of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and onyx (a white or gray banded chalcedony). The banding in sardonyx is formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich solutions in rock cavities, often over thousands of years.
Sardonyx is typically found in volcanic and sedimentary rocks and is most commonly mined in India, Brazil, and the United States. The red color of sardonyx is due to the presence of iron oxide, while the white layers are composed of pure silica.
Sardonyx is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, and is often used in cameos, beads, and intaglios rather than in high-wear jewelry. It is also known for its luminescent quality, which gives it a subtle glow under certain lighting conditions.
Spinel: A Versatile and Durable Gem
Spinel is a oxide mineral composed of aluminum and magnesium oxide. It is chemically distinct from ruby and sapphire, despite its similar appearance. Spinel can be found in a wide range of colors due to the presence of various trace elements, such as chromium (red), iron (brown), and titanium (blue).
Spinel is typically formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and it is often found in placer deposits—areas where gemstones are concentrated by water erosion. High-quality spinel is most commonly sourced from Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, though deposits are also found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Thailand.
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable and suitable gemstone for everyday wear. It is also known for its high refractive index and brilliance, which give it a fire and luster that rival those of ruby and sapphire.
Sapphire: The Royal Gemstone
Sapphire is a corundum mineral, composed of aluminum oxide. The blue color of sapphire is primarily due to the presence of iron and titanium, while other colors are caused by different trace elements. For example, pink sapphires are colored by chromium, and yellow sapphires are colored by iron.
Sapphire is typically formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and it is often found in placer deposits where it is concentrated by water. The most famous sources of sapphire include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Australia. Other notable sources include India, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
Sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable gemstones. This durability, combined with its brilliance and range of colors, has made sapphire a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and other fine jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Peridot: A Silicate Gem with a Vibrant Hue
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness | 6.5–7 (Mohs) |
| Refractive Index | 1.65–1.70 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.3–4.6 |
| Color | Green to yellow-green (due to iron content) |
| Origin | Egypt, Brazil, Myanmar, China, U.S. |
| Cut | Typically cut in round, oval, or cushion shapes |
| Cleavage | None; but it can be brittle and prone to chipping |
Peridot is known for its vibrant color and high luster, making it a popular choice for earrings, pendants, and rings. It is relatively affordable compared to other precious gemstones, which makes it a great option for those looking for a colorful and meaningful gemstone.
Sardonyx: A Banded Chalcedony with Historical Significance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ |
| Hardness | 6.5–7 (Mohs) |
| Refractive Index | 1.48–1.53 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.60–2.65 |
| Color | Reddish-brown with white or gray bands |
| Origin | India, Brazil, U.S. |
| Cut | Often carved into cameos, beads, and intaglios |
| Cleavage | None; but it is relatively soft and can be scratched easily |
Sardonyx is valued for its distinctive banding pattern and historical significance. It is often used in cameos and jewelry pieces that emphasize its natural color contrasts. Sardonyx is also used in beads and cabochons, where its banded pattern can be fully appreciated.
Spinel: A Durable and Diverse Gemstone
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness | 8 (Mohs) |
| Refractive Index | 1.718–1.720 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.6–4.0 |
| Color | Red, pink, orange, blue, green, and colorless |
| Origin | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Brazil, Madagascar |
| Cut | Round, oval, emerald, and princess cuts |
| Cleavage | None; highly durable |
Spinel is known for its brilliance and fire, which are comparable to those of ruby and sapphire. It is a versatile gemstone that can be found in a wide range of colors and is often used in engagement rings, earrings, and pendants. Spinel is also highly affordable, making it an excellent alternative to more expensive gemstones.
Sapphire: The Hardest of the Birthstones
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ |
| Hardness | 9 (Mohs) |
| Refractive Index | 1.76–1.78 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95–4.03 |
| Color | Blue, pink, yellow, green, and colorless |
| Origin | Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, India, Tanzania, Madagascar |
| Cut | Round, oval, emerald, princess, and cushion cuts |
| Cleavage | None; highly durable |
Sapphire is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its brilliance, clarity, and fire, which make it a popular choice for engagement rings and high-end jewelry. Sapphire is also heat-resistant and can be treated to enhance its color and clarity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: A Stone of Positivity and Protection
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, abundance, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the wearer. The stone was also believed to enhance mental clarity and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner peace.
In modern times, peridot is often used in healing practices and is believed to help with anxiety, stress, and emotional healing. It is also associated with renewal and transformation, making it a symbol of new beginnings and personal growth.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Strength and Clarity
Sardonyx is known for its strength and clarity, and it is often used to help the wearer overcome obstacles and maintain emotional stability. It is believed to enhance focus, determination, and willpower, making it a popular stone for those who need motivation and direction in life.
In ancient times, sardonyx was also used to ward off misfortune and attract good luck. It was often worn by warriors and leaders to help them make clear decisions and act with courage and confidence.
Spinel: A Stone of Passion and Vitality
Spinel is a passionate and vibrant gemstone that is believed to enhance energy, vitality, and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was used to protect the wearer from harm and promote a sense of inner strength.
Spinel is also associated with love and romance, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and love tokens. It is believed to enhance communication and emotional connection, helping couples to deepen their bond and express their feelings more openly.
Sapphire: A Stone of Nobility and Faithfulness
Sapphire has long been associated with royalty, nobility, and faithfulness. In ancient times, it was believed to protect the wearer from harm and envy, and to bring clarity, wisdom, and truth. It was also believed to enhance spiritual awareness and connection to the divine.
In modern times, sapphire is often used in engagement rings and wedding jewelry, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. It is also associated with loyalty and sincerity, making it a powerful symbol of trust and devotion.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot
Peridot is relatively soft and brittle, so it requires careful handling to avoid chipping or cracking. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. Cleaning peridot should be done with mild soap and lukewarm water, using a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush. It is best to avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is durable but relatively soft, so it should be handled with care. It can be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water, and a soft cloth or brush can be used to remove dirt and debris. It is best to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can scratch the surface of the stone.
Spinel
Spinel is a hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for daily wear and use. It can be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water, and a soft cloth or brush can be used to clean the surface. It is also safe to use ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to heat or chemicals.
Sapphire
Sapphire is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, and it is very resistant to scratches and damage. It can be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water, and a soft cloth or brush can be used to clean the surface. It is also safe to use ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to heat or chemicals, as these can affect the color and clarity of the stone.
Conclusion
August and September birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the history, beauty, and symbolism of the months they represent. Peridot, with its vibrant green hues, has been a symbol of abundance, protection, and positivity for thousands of years. Sardonyx, with its striking banded pattern, has been used in cameos and protective amulets, and is associated with strength and clarity. Spinel, a modern addition to the list of August birthstones, is a versatile and brilliant gemstone that has been mistaken for ruby in the past and is now gaining popularity in the jewelry industry.
For September, sapphire is the crown jewel of the birthstones. It has long been associated with nobility, truth, and faithfulness, and is a durable and brilliant gemstone that is perfect for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
Whether you are an August or September baby, or simply a gemstone enthusiast, these stones offer a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the past, present, and future. Their scientific properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism make them more than just gemstones—they are treasures of the earth.