August 31 marks the end of a vibrant summer month, a time when the natural world is in full bloom and the air carries the warmth of the season. For those born on this day, the birthstone is more than just a symbol of their birth month—it is a reflection of the month’s energy and a piece of history that connects them to ancient traditions, geological wonders, and cultural symbolism. The August 31 birthstone is represented by three distinct gemstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. While peridot is the most widely recognized and celebrated among them, each stone contributes its own unique color, character, and significance to the birthstone tradition.
This article explores the gemstones associated with August 31, with a particular focus on peridot. We will examine the gemological properties of peridot, its historical significance, the cultural beliefs surrounding it, and its role in jewelry and personal adornment. Additionally, we will touch upon sardonyx and spinel, the other two August 31 birthstones, to provide a broader understanding of the diversity of gemstones linked to this date. By the end of this article, readers will have a comprehensive view of why these stones are cherished not only for their beauty but also for their deep-rooted meanings and historical importance.
History and Lore
Peridot has a history that stretches back over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest known gemstones. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to recognize its value, mining it from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This island, now known as St. John’s Island, was a primary source of peridot in antiquity and was so rich in the gem that it was referred to as the "Isle of Fire." The Egyptians called peridot the "gem of the sun" due to its bright green color, which they believed to shimmer with an inner light. They associated it with the sun god Ra and wore it as a protective talisman to ward off evil spirits and nightmares.
The name "peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem," although some scholars suggest it may come from the Greek word peridona, meaning "giving plenty," a reference to the gemstone’s association with prosperity and good fortune. The historical record also notes that peridot was often confused with other gemstones, such as emerald and topaz. In fact, some historians believe that parts of Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection were actually peridot, a misconception that persisted for centuries.
In addition to its Egyptian roots, peridot has been found in ancient Roman and medieval European jewelry. Roman soldiers wore it for protection in battle, and it was believed to enhance courage and strength. During the Middle Ages, peridot was often set in gold to be worn at night, as it was thought to glow and protect the wearer from evil. The gem also found its way into religious artifacts, including the crown of the Holy Roman Emperor.
Sardonyx, the original birthstone for August 31, has an equally rich history. Known for its striking contrast of red and white bands, sardonyx was widely used in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It was particularly favored for signet rings, which were used to seal documents and mark ownership. The red color of sardonyx was associated with blood and vitality, while the white bands symbolized purity and strength. It was believed to offer protection in battle and was often worn by soldiers and warriors.
Spinel, the more recent addition to the August 31 birthstone lineup, has a fascinating history as well. For centuries, red spinel was mistaken for ruby and was highly valued in royal collections. Some of the most famous "rubies" in history, including the "Balas Ruby" in the British Crown Jewels, are actually red spinel. Only in recent years has spinel been recognized for its own unique beauty and value, and it has gained popularity as an alternative to ruby and other traditional gemstones.
Together, peridot, sardonyx, and spinel represent a diverse and storied lineage of gemstones that have been cherished across cultures and eras. Their shared history as August 31 birthstones underscores the enduring appeal of these gems and their deep connections to human tradition and belief.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a member of the olivine mineral family, a group of silicate minerals that form in the Earth's upper mantle. Its chemical formula is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄, and the presence of iron is what gives peridot its characteristic green color. The more iron a peridot contains, the deeper its green hue. Peridot forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth, where it is eventually brought to the surface through volcanic activity. This is why many of the world’s most significant peridot deposits are found in volcanic regions.
The oldest recorded source of peridot is the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which was mined by the ancient Egyptians. Today, peridot is found in a variety of locations around the world, including:
- United States: Arizona, particularly the area around the San Carlos Reservation, is a well-known source of high-quality peridot.
- China
- Myanmar
- Pakistan
- Tanzania
- Vietnam
Peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, particularly in a type known as pallasite meteorites, which contain peridot crystals embedded in a matrix of iron-nickel metal. These extraterrestrial sources add to the gemstone’s mystique and make it one of the few gemstones that can be found both on Earth and in space.
Sardonyx, a type of chalcedony, is a microcrystalline form of quartz that forms in cavities within volcanic rock. Its banded appearance is the result of alternating layers of different colored chalcedony. Sardonyx is typically composed of a reddish-brown or orange chalcedony with white or pale bands. The red color comes from iron impurities, while the white bands are pure chalcedony. Sardonyx has been historically sourced from India and the Middle East, with ancient deposits in regions such as Afghanistan and Persia.
Spinel is a mineral that forms in igneous rocks and is often found in association with corundum (the mineral family that includes ruby and sapphire). Spinel forms in high-temperature environments and is known for its clarity and brilliance. It is found in a variety of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The red and pink varieties are the most common and are often found in the same geological formations as ruby. Spinel is mined in countries such as Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania.
The geological origins of these gemstones highlight the natural processes that create their unique colors and properties. From deep within the Earth’s mantle to the surface, and even beyond to meteorites, these gemstones are products of the planet's dynamic geological activity. Their formation and discovery in such diverse locations contribute to their global appeal and historical significance.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This means it is not as durable as harder gemstones like diamond or sapphire, and it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. Its specific gravity ranges from 3.25 to 4.35, and it has a refractive index between 1.65 and 1.70. These properties give peridot a distinctive luster that is often described as vitreous or glassy. Peridot is also known for its pleochroism, meaning it can exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles. In some cases, peridot can appear yellowish when viewed from one direction and green from another.
The most notable feature of peridot is its color, which ranges from light yellow-green to deep olive green. This variation is due to the amount of iron present in the crystal structure. Light green peridots are often referred to as "lime green," while medium green peridots are the most commonly found and are highly versatile for jewelry. Dark green peridots, sometimes approaching olive in color, have a deeper, richer tone and are often used in more sophisticated designs. Some peridots also exhibit a yellowish-green tint, which can be particularly striking in the right design.
Peridot is typically transparent to translucent and is often cut into faceted shapes to enhance its brilliance and color. The most popular cuts include round, oval, and cushion, which allow the gemstone to display its vibrant color and sparkle. Peridot is also sometimes cut into cabochons, especially when it contains inclusions that can create an attractive visual effect.
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is composed of layers of chalcedony. Its banded appearance is one of its most distinctive features, with the red bands caused by iron impurities and the white bands being pure chalcedony. Sardonyx is typically opaque and is often cut into cabochons or used for carving intricate designs, such as signet rings and cameos.
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than both peridot and sardonyx. It has a refractive index between 1.71 and 1.83, and its clarity is often excellent, with many stones being eye-clean. Spinel is available in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The red and pink varieties are the most common and are often mistaken for ruby. Spinel is typically cut into faceted shapes to maximize its brilliance and color.
The gemological properties of these three gemstones make them well-suited for jewelry and other forms of personal adornment. Their varying hardness, color, and clarity allow for a wide range of design possibilities, from everyday wear to special occasion pieces. Understanding these properties is essential for jewelers and gemologists in order to create pieces that showcase the natural beauty of each gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, renewal, and protection. In ancient Egyptian culture, it was believed to ward off nightmares and negative influences, especially when worn in gold. The gem was also associated with the sun and was considered a symbol of light and vitality. During the Middle Ages, peridot was worn at night to protect the wearer from evil spirits and to promote restful sleep. It was also believed to bring prosperity and good fortune, making it a popular choice for those seeking abundance in their lives.
In modern times, peridot continues to be associated with positive emotions and spiritual growth. It is believed to promote feelings of joy, optimism, and emotional healing. Peridot is also associated with the heart chakra and is thought to help open the heart to love and compassion. Some practitioners use peridot during meditation to enhance clarity and focus.
Sardonyx has been historically associated with strength, courage, and protection. In ancient times, it was worn by soldiers and warriors to enhance their bravery and protect them in battle. It was also believed to help in decision-making and to provide stability in times of uncertainty. Sardonyx was often used in signet rings, which were used to seal important documents and mark ownership. The red bands were believed to represent vitality and energy, while the white bands symbolized purity and strength.
Spinel has a more recent history in terms of metaphysical beliefs, but it has gained popularity as a gemstone associated with passion, creativity, and emotional balance. Red spinel, in particular, is believed to stimulate the heart and promote love and affection. It is also thought to enhance courage and confidence, making it a popular choice for those seeking personal empowerment.
While the metaphysical properties of gemstones are not scientifically proven, they continue to be an important part of cultural and spiritual traditions. The beliefs surrounding peridot, sardonyx, and spinel reflect the deep connections that people have formed with these gemstones over centuries.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, peridot requires careful handling to prevent scratches and damage. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid abrasion. Peridot is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures, as this can cause it to lose its color or become brittle. When cleaning peridot, it is best to use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
Sardonyx is also relatively soft and should be handled with care. It is not as sensitive to heat as peridot, but it can still be damaged by sudden temperature changes. Sardonyx can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, but it should not be immersed in water for long periods, as this can cause it to absorb moisture and become discolored.
Spinel is more durable than both peridot and sardonyx, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it can also be safely cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Spinel is not sensitive to heat or chemicals, making it a more versatile gemstone in terms of care and maintenance.
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and value of these gemstones. By understanding their unique properties and needs, gemstone owners can ensure that their pieces remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Conclusion
The August 31 birthstone is represented by three distinct gemstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each with its own unique color, history, and significance. Peridot, the most widely recognized of the three, is cherished for its vibrant green hues and its long-standing association with light, vitality, and prosperity. Sardonyx, with its striking banded appearance, has a rich history of use in ancient cultures and is believed to provide strength and protection. Spinel, a more recent addition to the August 31 birthstone lineup, offers a range of colors and is prized for its brilliance and clarity.
These gemstones are not only beautiful but also deeply connected to human history, culture, and belief systems. From their geological formation deep within the Earth to their use in jewelry and personal adornment, peridot, sardonyx, and spinel continue to captivate and inspire. Whether worn for their beauty, their symbolic meaning, or their historical significance, these gemstones serve as a lasting reminder of the enduring appeal of birthstones and their role in connecting people to the past.