For those born in August, the month is marked by a unique distinction: it is the only month with three official birthstones. These gems—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—each bring their own charm, history, and symbolism. Unlike other months that feature just one or two gemstones, August’s selection reflects a rich tapestry of geological and cultural significance.
The inclusion of these three stones is not merely ornamental but is rooted in historical and cultural practices. Originally, Sardonyx was the sole August birthstone, a tradition dating back to biblical times. However, due to its frequent confusion with Peridot because of their similar greenish hues, Peridot was later added. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America officially recognized Spinel as the third August birthstone, adding a vibrant and versatile gem to the list.
This article will explore each of these August birthstones in detail, covering their geological origins, historical significance, symbolic meanings, and care instructions. Whether you're an August-born individual, a gemstone enthusiast, or a jewelry buyer, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these captivating gems.
History and Lore
The historical significance of August’s birthstones dates back centuries, with each gemstone playing a unique role in different cultures and traditions.
Sardonyx: The Ancient August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the earliest recorded August birthstone, appearing in biblical texts and ancient religious artifacts. It is one of the foundation stones of New Jerusalem, as described in the Book of Revelation, and was also one of the gems on the high priest's breastplate (Breastplate of Aaron) in the Old Testament. This places Sardonyx in a sacred context, symbolizing spiritual purity and divine connection.
The name Sardonyx comes from the combination of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a banded chalcedony). The stone is composed of alternating layers of these two materials, creating a zebra-like striped appearance. Sardonyx was highly valued in ancient Rome and Egypt, where it was used to carve seals and signet rings. These rings were used to imprint wax on documents, a practice that made Sardonyx a symbol of authority, authenticity, and power.
Peridot: The Stone of Light and Growth
Peridot, the second official August birthstone, has a more recent but equally rich history. Known for its vibrant green color, Peridot was believed to bring prosperity, love, loyalty, and protection. The name “Peridot” may derive from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem,” or from the French word “peritot,” meaning “to pass through,” possibly alluding to the stone’s journey from the Earth’s mantle to the surface.
Peridot has long been associated with growth and renewal, making it a popular gemstone in ancient Egypt, where it was referred to as the “gem of the sun.” The ancient Egyptians believed that Peridot could cure ailments and protect against nightmares. They also used it in jewelry and amulets, often placing it in tombs to guide the soul in the afterlife.
Spinel: The Modern Addition to August
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone list, officially recognized in 2016. Known for its brilliant color range—ranging from red and pink to blue, purple, and even black—Spinel is a versatile gemstone that rivals even Rubies in appearance. Despite its beauty and rarity, Spinel was often mistaken for Ruby in the past, especially in historical jewelry collections.
Spinel has been found in ancient artifacts and was highly prized in royal courts. A famous example is the "Black Prince’s Ruby," which is actually a large red Spinel set in the crown of England. Its inclusion as an August birthstone reflects the gemstone’s enduring appeal and growing recognition in the modern jewelry industry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of August’s birthstones has a distinct geological origin and is found in various parts of the world.
Peridot
Peridot is a naturally occurring form of the mineral forsterite, a member of the olivine family. It forms deep within the Earth’s mantle, at depths of up to 150 kilometers. Unlike most other gemstones, which form in the Earth’s crust, Peridot is carried to the surface through volcanic eruptions. As magma cools and solidifies, it deposits Peridot crystals within basalt rock.
Interestingly, Peridot has also been found in meteorites, such as the Jepara meteorite discovered on the island of Java. These extraterrestrial Peridot stones are believed to have formed in the early solar system, adding another layer of fascination to the gemstone.
Peridot is most commonly found in Arizona (USA), Burma (Myanmar), and Pakistan, with other notable sources in Madagascar and Egypt.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, composed of layers of sard and onyx. Chalcedony is a microcrystalline form of quartz, meaning its crystal structure is too fine to be seen with the naked eye. Sardonyx forms in cavities and fissures in volcanic rock, where silica-rich water deposits the minerals over time.
The most notable sources of Sardonyx include India, Brazil, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. Among these, Indian Sardonyx is particularly renowned for its distinct banding and vibrant colors.
Spinel
Spinel forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, typically in high-pressure and high-temperature environments. It is often found alongside other gemstones such as corundum (Ruby and Sapphire) and is sometimes mistaken for Ruby due to its similar red color.
Spinel is found in various parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Thailand, Vietnam, and Brazil. The Afghanistan deposits are especially famous for producing high-quality red and pink Spinel, while the Burmese mines are known for their vivid blue and purple varieties.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and optical properties of each gemstone is essential for identifying and appreciating its value.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Green (brownish to yellowish) | 6.5 – 7 | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | 1.65 – 1.70 | 3.34 – 4.50 |
| Sardonyx | Reddish-brown with white bands | 6.5 – 7 | SiO₂ | 1.53 – 1.54 | 2.58 – 2.64 |
| Spinel | Red, pink, blue, purple, black | 8 | MgAl₂O₄ | 1.718 – 1.720 | 3.98 – 4.10 |
Peridot
- Color: Peridot is known for its green hue, which ranges from yellowish-green to brownish-green, depending on its iron content. It is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color.
- Hardness: Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively hard but not the hardest gemstone. It is suitable for daily wear but should be protected from sharp impacts.
- Chemical Composition: Peridot is the gem-quality form of the mineral forsterite, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. The green color is due to the presence of iron.
- Refractive Index: Peridot has a refractive index of 1.65 to 1.70, giving it a glassy luster and good brilliance.
- Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of Peridot ranges from 3.34 to 4.50, making it a dense gemstone.
Sardonyx
- Color: Sardonyx is a banded gemstone with reddish-brown sard and white or pale onyx layers. The banding can vary in width and intensity.
- Hardness: Sardonyx has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it durable enough for everyday jewelry.
- Chemical Composition: Sardonyx is a microcrystalline form of quartz (SiO₂), formed in layers of sard and onyx.
- Refractive Index: Sardonyx has a refractive index of 1.53 to 1.54, giving it a subtle luster.
- Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of Sardonyx is between 2.58 and 2.64, making it lighter than Peridot.
Spinel
- Color: Spinel is available in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, purple, and black. The most valuable Spinel stones are red and blue.
- Hardness: Spinel has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it very durable and suitable for daily wear.
- Chemical Composition: Spinel is composed of magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄). The color variations are due to trace elements such as chromium (for red), cobalt (for blue), and iron (for black).
- Refractive Index: Spinel has a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.720, giving it a sparkling brilliance similar to diamond.
- Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of Spinel ranges from 3.98 to 4.10, making it a dense and heavy gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of August’s birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been passed down through various cultures and traditions.
Peridot
- Symbolism: Peridot is associated with growth, prosperity, love, loyalty, and protection. It is believed to bring positive energy, abundance, and emotional healing.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: In ancient Egypt, Peridot was considered a stone of protection, used to ward off nightmares and negative energy. It was also believed to enhance clarity of thought and improve communication.
- Modern Beliefs: Today, Peridot is often used in reiki and crystal healing practices to promote emotional balance and inner peace. It is also associated with manifesting abundance and fostering strong relationships.
Sardonyx
- Symbolism: Sardonyx is a stone of authority, authenticity, and power. It is believed to enhance confidence, strength, and leadership qualities.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: In ancient times, Sardonyx was used in seals and signet rings to imprint wax on documents, making it a symbol of authenticity and power. It was also believed to protect against negative influences and promote mental clarity.
- Modern Beliefs: Sardonyx is often used in energy healing to boost self-esteem and promote perseverance. It is also associated with success in business and communication.
Spinel
- Symbolism: Spinel is a stone of passion, creativity, and transformation. It is believed to stimulate the heart and soul, bringing inner strength and emotional resilience.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Spinel has been used in royal courts and ancient artifacts, where it was believed to bring good fortune and protection. It is also associated with love and romance, making it a popular gemstone for engagement rings and love charms.
- Modern Beliefs: In crystal healing, Spinel is used to activate the heart chakra and promote emotional healing. It is also believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry.
Peridot
- Hardness: 6.5 – 7
- Cleaning: Peridot should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store Peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. Keep it in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box.
Sardonyx
- Hardness: 6.5 – 7
- Cleaning: Sardonyx can be cleaned with mild soap and water, using a soft brush or cloth. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store Sardonyx in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Spinel
- Hardness: 8
- Cleaning: Spinel is durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. A soft brush or cloth can be used to remove dirt and debris.
- Storage: Spinel can be stored with other gemstones, but it is best to keep it in a jewelry box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—each bring their own unique beauty, history, and symbolism. From the ancient roots of Sardonyx in biblical and royal traditions to the vibrant charm of Peridot and the modern elegance of Spinel, these gems offer a rich tapestry of meaning and significance.
Whether you choose a Peridot ring, a Sardonyx pendant, or a Spinel bracelet, each of these stones carries with it the power of prosperity, protection, and transformation. As you wear or gift these gems, you are not only embracing their physical beauty but also honoring the centuries of history and belief that surround them.
For those born in August, these birthstones are more than just jewelry—they are symbols of identity, strength, and connection to the world around us. And for those who appreciate the allure of gemstones, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological and cultural wonders of our planet.