August is the only month with three official birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each with its own rich history, cultural significance, and gemological properties. These stones have captivated civilizations for millennia, from the ancient Egyptians to the Renaissance courts of Europe. This article explores each of these August birthstones in detail, offering insight into their geological origins, symbolic meanings, and their roles in jewelry and adornment. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide will provide a comprehensive and authoritative look into the world of August’s birthstones.
History and Lore
Sardonyx: The Original August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of August’s three birthstones, with a history stretching back over 4,000 years. It was particularly valued in ancient Egypt and was often used in talismans and amulets. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed in the protective and healing powers of sardonyx, especially for warriors and orators. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx engraved with images of gods to invoke their favor and protection in battle. The ancient Egyptians associated sardonyx with bone healing and used it in medicinal practices. During the Renaissance, sardonyx was believed to promote eloquence and clarity of thought, making it a favored gem among public speakers and scholars.
Sardonyx is also connected with personal power and confidence. It is said to foster courage, happiness, and willpower, making it a popular stone among those seeking to overcome challenges or take on leadership roles. In terms of relationships, sardonyx is believed to promote stability and communication, making it a meaningful gift for couples or close friends.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot is perhaps the most well-known of the three August birthstones. Its name is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." In ancient Egypt, peridot was known as the "gem of the sun" and was believed to bring light, protection, and vitality. The ancient Egyptians sourced peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, a site that remained a major source of the gemstone for centuries. The island was so harsh that it was nicknamed the "Island of Death" and "Snake Island."
Peridot was also valued in medieval Europe, where it was used to decorate church altars and clerical robes. During the Victorian era, peridot became a popular gemstone in jewelry, often used in rings, pendants, and earrings. The gemstone has also been the subject of historical intrigue—some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous "emerald" collection may have actually been peridot.
Peridot is associated with the sun and is believed to bring clarity, strength, and positive energy. It is also said to protect against nightmares and promote good health and confidence. Peridot is the gemstone given to celebrate the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love and harmony.
Spinel: The Newcomer to the August Birthstone List
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone family, officially recognized in 2016. Once mistaken for ruby and other red gemstones, spinel was historically underappreciated but is now gaining popularity as a unique and versatile gemstone. Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, and even colorless, making it a highly desirable choice for jewelry.
Spinel has been prized for centuries, especially in royal collections. It was often used in crowns and other regal adornments because of its brilliance and durability. The gemstone is known for its clarity and fire, often rivaling that of ruby and sapphire. Spinel is also relatively rare, particularly in fine colors and large sizes.
In terms of symbolism, spinel is associated with vitality, love, and passion. It is believed to bring joy, confidence, and emotional strength to the wearer. Its versatility and beauty make it an excellent choice for both classic and contemporary jewelry designs.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot
Peridot is a type of olivine, a mineral that forms under high temperatures and high pressure. It is commonly found in basaltic lava flows, volcanic islands, and meteorites—a rare and fascinating source for a gemstone. Peridot from meteorites is especially prized by collectors for its extraterrestrial origin.
The most historically significant source of peridot is the island of Zabargad, now known as St. John’s Island, located in the Red Sea. This island has been a major source of peridot since at least the 3rd century BCE. Peridot is also found in Hawaii, where it appears in the lava fields and is even visible in the sands of Peridot Beach. Other notable sources include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
Peridot’s color is due to its iron content, and the most valuable specimens are those with a pure green color, free from yellow or brown tones. The gemstone is known for its glassy luster and vibrant color, which can range from yellowish green to deep olive green.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded variety of onyx, a type of chalcedony (a form of quartz). It is characterized by alternating layers of reddish-brown and white, creating a striking and elegant appearance. The red layer is typically carnelian, a type of chalcedony colored by iron oxide, while the white layer is onyx.
Sardonyx is found in several countries, including India, Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. The United States has several notable sources, particularly in Arizona, where sardonyx is mined alongside other chalcedony varieties. The gemstone has also been found in Germany and Egypt, where it was historically used in jewelry and amulets.
Because sardonyx is a silicate mineral, it is relatively hard and durable, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications. It is often used in rings, pendants, and brooches, where its banded pattern adds a decorative element.
Spinel
Spinel forms in mafic igneous rocks, such as basalt and gabbro, and is also found in metamorphic rocks. It is often discovered alongside other gemstones, such as corundum (ruby and sapphire) and zircon. Spinel is known for its brilliant clarity and vivid colors, which are due to trace amounts of chromium, iron, or magnesium in its crystal structure.
Some of the most famous sources of spinel include Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Madagascar. In the past, Persia (modern-day Iran) was a major source of fine red spinel, which was often mistaken for ruby. Today, spinel is being rediscovered as a gemstone of its own right, with high-quality specimens being found in Tanzania and Kenya.
Spinel is a hard gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for use in rings and other everyday jewelry. Its versatility and durability make it a popular choice for both vintage and modern designs.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Luster | Transparency | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | Green (yellow-green to olive) | 6.5–7 | Vitreous | Transparent to translucent | Zabargad, Hawaii, China |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ (chalcedony) | Reddish brown and white banded | 6.5–7 | Waxy to vitreous | Translucent to opaque | India, Brazil, U.S. |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Red, pink, orange, colorless | 8 | Vitreous | Transparent to translucent | Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Vietnam |
Peridot
Peridot is a silicate mineral with a hexagonal crystal structure. Its color is caused by iron, and the most desirable peridots have a deep green tone without any yellow or brown overtones. Peridot is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, which means it is more prone to scratching than harder gemstones like sapphire or diamond. It has a vitreous luster, meaning it has a glassy shine, and is usually transparent or translucent.
Peridot is often cut in a brilliant or emerald style, depending on the desired effect. The emerald cut enhances the gemstone’s color and clarity, while brilliant cuts maximize its sparkle and fire.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a silica-based mineral, composed mainly of quartz and iron oxide. It is a banded stone, with the red layer being carnelian and the white layer being onyx. Sardonyx has a waxy to vitreous luster and is translucent to opaque, depending on the layering.
The hardness of sardonyx is 6.5 to 7, making it durable enough for use in rings and pendants. However, it should be handled with care, as it can chip or crack if struck against a hard surface. Sardonyx is often polished and carved to highlight its banded pattern, making it a popular choice for intaglio and cameo designs.
Spinel
Spinel is an oxide mineral with a cubic crystal structure. It is known for its brilliant clarity and vivid colors, which are caused by trace elements like chromium, iron, or magnesium. Spinel has a vitreous luster, meaning it has a glassy or shiny surface, and is usually transparent to translucent.
Spinel has a hardness of 8, making it one of the toughest gemstones, suitable for use in rings and other jewelry that is worn daily. It is often cut in round, oval, or cushion shapes, depending on the desired aesthetic. Spinel is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it excellent brilliance and fire, especially in red and pink varieties.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, light, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to bring good health, confidence, and protection from nightmares. The gemstone was also used as a talisman to ward off evil spirits and to promote mental clarity and emotional balance.
In modern times, peridot is still associated with healing and renewal. It is believed to soothe the mind and body, reduce stress, and promote inner peace. Peridot is also said to encourage creativity and optimism, making it a popular stone for those seeking inspiration and motivation.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a protective and empowering gemstone. It is believed to enhance courage, willpower, and confidence, making it an ideal stone for those facing challenges or seeking to overcome obstacles. Sardonyx is also associated with clear communication and eloquence, making it a favored gemstone among orators and public speakers.
In terms of love and relationships, sardonyx is believed to promote stability and trust, helping couples build stronger connections. It is also said to foster creativity and motivation, making it a popular stone for artists, writers, and entrepreneurs.
Spinel
Spinel is a stone of vitality, love, and passion. It is believed to bring joy, warmth, and emotional strength, making it a powerful gemstone for those seeking to enhance their emotional well-being. Spinel is also associated with confidence and courage, helping the wearer feel empowered and self-assured.
In terms of love and relationships, spinel is believed to foster deep emotional connections, making it a meaningful gift for couples or lovers. It is also associated with passion and desire, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, so it should be handled with care. It is susceptible to scratches and abrasions, so it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.
Peridot can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It should be rinsed thoroughly and dried with a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used with caution, but they should be avoided if the stone is oiled or has inclusions that could be affected by vibrations or heat.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is more durable than peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, but it can still be chipped or cracked if struck against a hard surface. It is also porous, so it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
Sardonyx can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It should be rinsed and dried with a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used with caution, but they should be avoided if the stone has deep inclusions or fractures.
Spinel
Spinel is a very durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8, making it suitable for daily wear. It is resistant to scratches and abrasions, but it should still be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.
Spinel can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It should be rinsed and dried with a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used safely, making spinel a low-maintenance gemstone that is easy to care for.
Conclusion
August’s three birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each have their own unique history, symbolism, and gemological properties. Peridot, the gem of the sun, has been cherished for thousands of years for its vibrant green color and protective qualities. Sardonyx, the oldest of the August birthstones, has a rich history in ancient civilizations and is believed to promote courage, communication, and stability. Spinel, the newest addition to the August birthstone list, is a brilliant and versatile gemstone that is gaining popularity for its vivid colors and exceptional durability.
Whether you are looking for a meaningful gift, a personal adornment, or a symbol of strength and vitality, these three gemstones offer a wealth of beauty and significance. From their geological origins to their metaphysical properties, peridot, sardonyx, and spinel continue to captivate and inspire, making them a wonderful choice for those born in August.