August is a month uniquely distinguished in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with not one, but multiple gemstones. This diversity reflects the rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and geological influences that have shaped the significance of these stones across time. From the vibrant green of peridot to the fiery red of ruby, the August birthstones encapsulate a wide spectrum of beauty, symbolism, and tradition.
This article delves into the various gemstones associated with August, exploring their origins, properties, cultural meanings, and their roles in both ancient and modern gem traditions. The focus is on the most commonly recognized August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, spinel, moonstone, topaz, carnelian, alexandrite, ruby, and diamond—with particular attention to their historical and gemological significance.
Introduction
The concept of birthstones—gemstones associated with specific months of the year—has a long and varied history. While the modern list of birthstones was formalized in the 20th century, the roots of these associations stretch back to ancient times, often influenced by religious texts, cultural traditions, and mineralogical discoveries.
August, in particular, stands out due to the multiplicity of its birthstones. The original August birthstone was sardonyx, but over time, peridot and spinel were added to the list. Additionally, various traditional, religious, and cultural systems have assigned different stones to the month, including ruby in the Hindu tradition, sapphire in the Ayurvedic system, and diamond in the Tibetan calendar.
The diversity of August’s birthstones is not just a matter of aesthetics but also reflects the global and historical journey of gemology. Each of these stones has its own unique properties, formation processes, and cultural associations, making August a particularly interesting case study in the world of birthstones.
History and Lore
The Evolution of August Birthstones
The modern list of birthstones was officially updated in 2016 by the American Gem Society, adding spinel to the August birthstone lineup alongside the already recognized peridot and sardonyx. This update reflects the growing appreciation for spinel as a distinct and valuable gemstone, separate from ruby.
Before the formal recognition of peridot and spinel, sardonyx was the sole August birthstone. Sardonyx, a banded chalcedony with alternating red and white layers, has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. It was highly valued in ancient Egypt and Rome for its decorative appeal and symbolic significance. Sardonyx was often used in signet rings and amulets, and it was believed to bring protection and good fortune.
Peridot, on the other hand, has a more mysterious origin. While it is now the most widely recognized modern August birthstone, its use as a zodiac stone for Libra predates its association with August. Peridot is known for its vivid green color, which is due to the presence of iron in its chemical composition. Its name, however, remains enigmatic, with no clear etymology.
Cultural and Traditional Variations
The list of August birthstones is not uniform across all cultures. In the traditional August birthstone list, sardonyx, carnelian, moonstone, and topaz are included. These stones have been used in various parts of the world for centuries, often in the context of spiritual or protective amulets.
Carnelian, a red variety of chalcedony, was an August birthstone in the ancient Roman, Italian, and Hebrew calendars. It was also used as a zodiac stone for both Leo and Virgo, which overlap with the month of August. Carnelian is believed to enhance passion and desire and was often worn as a talisman for courage and vitality.
Moonstone, another traditional August birthstone, is composed of alternating layers of orthoclase and albite. This unique structure gives the gemstone its characteristic adularescence—the soft, glowing light that appears to float just below the surface. Moonstone was believed to offer protection and was associated with feminine energy and intuition.
Topaz, particularly the yellow variety, was also a traditional August birthstone. It was regarded as a symbol of strength and optimism in the Middle Ages. Topaz was believed to have the power to bring good fortune and to ward off illness.
In the Hindu tradition, ruby is the August birthstone. Ruby, a red variety of corundum, was believed to bring courage, mental clarity, and protection from harm. Before ruby was designated as the August gemstone in the Hindu calendar, sapphire was the assigned stone. Blue sapphire, also a variety of corundum, was associated with inner peace and was linked to the zodiac sign of Virgo.
In the Tibetan calendar, diamond is the August birthstone. Diamond, the hardest known natural material, is not only valued for its physical properties but also for its symbolic meaning of endurance and purity. In traditional Tibetan belief, diamond was thought to protect the wearer from misfortune.
Russian tradition also contributed to the August birthstone list with alexandrite, a rare gemstone known for its color-changing properties. Alexandrite shifts from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. This transformation made it a highly prized stone, associated with adaptability and transformation.
These varied cultural and traditional associations highlight the richness of August’s birthstone tradition. While the modern list is more standardized, the historical diversity of August’s birthstones reflects the global nature of gemstone use and belief systems.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot
Peridot is a gemstone formed under extreme conditions, typically in the Earth’s mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, where it is found in the hardened lava that carried it from deep within the Earth. Peridot is also known to occur in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that have been identified in extraterrestrial material.
The most well-known sources of peridot include Arizona in the United States, Pakistan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The island of Zabargad in the Red Sea is historically significant as a source of peridot, and it is believed that the ancient Egyptians used this island’s deposits to create their famous gold and peridot jewelry.
Peridot is composed of the mineral olivine, which has a chemical formula of (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. The presence of iron in the crystal structure is responsible for its characteristic green color. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewelry use, though it is still susceptible to scratches and abrasion.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded form of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz. It is composed of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a black or white chalcedony). The red color in sardonyx is due to the presence of iron, while the white or black layers are caused by impurities in the quartz.
The primary sources of sardonyx include India, Brazil, and Madagascar. The stone has been mined and used for thousands of years, with ancient Egyptian and Roman civilizations being among the earliest known users. Sardonyx was particularly favored for its durability and ease of carving, making it ideal for signet rings and amulets.
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. Its banded appearance and relatively low cost make it a popular choice for both traditional and modern designs.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that is chemically distinct from ruby and sapphire, despite its similar appearance. It is composed of magnesium aluminum silicate (MgAl₂O₄), and its color is determined by trace elements such as chromium, which gives it a red or pink color, and iron, which produces black or brown tones.
Spinel is found in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, purple, and even colorless. The red variety of spinel was often mistaken for ruby in the past, and some famous historical gems, such as the “Black Prince’s Ruby” in the British Crown Jewels, are actually red spinel.
Notable sources of spinel include Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar), and Vietnam. Spinel is relatively durable, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a type of feldspar composed of alternating layers of orthoclase and albite. These layers are extremely fine, and they interact with light in a way that produces the characteristic adularescence—soft, glowing light that appears to float just below the surface of the stone.
Moonstone is found in countries such as Sri Lanka, India, and the United States. The most highly valued moonstone comes from Sri Lanka, where it is known for its strong adularescence and colorless to white appearance.
Moonstone has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches. It is best suited for jewelry that is not worn frequently, such as pendants and earrings.
Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that is composed of aluminum and fluorine. It is known for its clarity and brilliance, and it can occur in a wide range of colors, including yellow, blue, pink, and colorless. The yellow and brown varieties of topaz were the most commonly associated with August in the Middle Ages.
Topaz is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. Brazil is the largest producer of topaz, particularly the yellow and blue varieties. Topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for a variety of jewelry applications.
Carnelian
Carnelian is a red or reddish-brown variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz. Its color is due to the presence of iron, and it is often used in jewelry and carvings. Carnelian is known for its warm, inviting color and its ability to take a high polish.
The primary sources of carnelian include India, Brazil, and the United States. Carnelian has been used for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Egyptians using it in seals and amulets. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewelry, though it is not as durable as harder gemstones like topaz or spinel.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare and valuable gemstone that is a variety of chrysoberyl. It is known for its color-changing properties, shifting from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. This phenomenon is due to the presence of chromium in the crystal structure.
Alexandrite is primarily found in Russia, Brazil, and India. The Russian deposits, particularly in the Ural Mountains, are historically significant, as the stone was discovered there in 1834 and was named after Czar Alexander II. Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for jewelry.
Ruby
Ruby is a red variety of corundum, a mineral composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its red color is due to the presence of chromium. Ruby is one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, and it has been highly prized for centuries.
In the Hindu tradition, ruby is the August birthstone. It is found in various parts of the world, including Myanmar, Thailand, and India. Myanmar is the most famous source of ruby, particularly for the highly prized “pigeon’s blood” ruby.
Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones. It is highly durable and suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications.
Diamond
Diamond is a crystalline form of carbon and is the hardest natural substance known to man. It is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and heat. Diamond is found in various parts of the world, including South Africa, Russia, and Australia.
In the old Tibetan calendar, diamond is the August birthstone. It is believed to offer protection and bring good fortune. Diamond is highly valued for its brilliance and durability, and it is one of the most popular gemstones in the world.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of August’s birthstones vary widely, reflecting the diversity of the stones. Below is a summary of the key properties of each gemstone:
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Composition | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Green | 6.5–7 | Olivine (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | Arizona, Pakistan |
| Sardonyx | Red and white bands | 6.5–7 | Chalcedony | India, Brazil |
| Spinel | Red, pink, blue | 8 | Magnesium aluminum silicate | Sri Lanka, Myanmar |
| Moonstone | White, translucent | 6–6.5 | Feldspar (orthoclase and albite) | Sri Lanka, India |
| Topaz | Yellow, blue, pink | 8 | Aluminum silicate | Brazil, Mexico |
| Carnelian | Red, brown | 6.5–7 | Chalcedony | India, Brazil |
| Alexandrite | Green to red | 8.5 | Chrysoberyl (Al₂BeO₄) | Russia, Brazil |
| Ruby | Red | 9 | Corundum (Al₂O₃) | Myanmar, Thailand |
| Diamond | Colorless, yellow, brown | 10 | Carbon | South Africa, Russia |
These properties influence how each gemstone is used in jewelry and how it should be cared for. For example, peridot and moonstone, which are relatively soft, require more careful handling and cleaning, while spinel and ruby are more durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The August birthstones are not only valued for their beauty and rarity but also for the meanings and powers they have been attributed throughout history.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with protection, good health, and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off nightmares and bring peace of mind. Peridot was also used as a protective stone for travelers and was thought to bring prosperity and success.
In modern times, peridot is considered a stone of renewal and transformation. It is believed to help the wearer release negative emotions and to foster inner peace and clarity.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has been associated with love, loyalty, and protection in various cultures. In ancient Roman and Egyptian traditions, it was believed to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from harm. Sardonyx was also used in love magic and was thought to promote harmony in relationships.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively new addition to the August birthstone list, but it has been valued for centuries for its beauty and rarity. In modern metaphysical traditions, spinel is believed to enhance vitality, courage, and passion. It is also considered a stone of joy and emotional healing.
Moonstone
Moonstone is often associated with feminine energy, intuition, and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance psychic abilities and to bring calm and clarity to the mind. Moonstone is also considered a protective stone, particularly for women, and it is often used in rituals to promote inner strength and emotional stability.
Topaz
Topaz has long been associated with strength, courage, and good fortune. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to have the power to ward off illness and to bring good health. Topaz is also considered a stone of optimism and motivation, helping the wearer to stay positive and focused.
Carnelian
Carnelian is a stone of passion, vitality, and courage. It is believed to enhance energy, motivation, and confidence. Carnelian is also associated with creativity and is often used in rituals to stimulate inspiration and artistic expression.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a stone of transformation and adaptability. It is believed to help the wearer navigate change and to embrace new opportunities with confidence. Alexandrite is also associated with spiritual growth and intuition.
Ruby
Ruby is a stone of passion, courage, and vitality. It is believed to enhance energy, motivation, and mental clarity. Ruby is also associated with love and is often used in love magic and rituals to promote passion and commitment.
Diamond
Diamond is a stone of purity, strength, and endurance. It is believed to offer protection and to bring good fortune. In traditional Tibetan belief, diamond is thought to help the wearer overcome obstacles and to achieve success.
These metaphysical beliefs have influenced the use of these stones in jewelry and in various cultural practices. While gemology is a scientific discipline, the symbolic meanings of gemstones have played a significant role in their popularity and value.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of August’s birthstones. The specific care instructions for each gemstone depend on its hardness, durability, and chemical composition.
Peridot
Peridot is relatively soft (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale), so it should be handled with care. It is susceptible to scratches and abrasion and should be stored separately from harder gemstones. Peridot can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is fairly durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Sardonyx can be worn daily but should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively hard gemstone (8 on the Mohs scale) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Spinel is durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Moonstone
Moonstone is relatively soft (6–6.5 on the Mohs scale), so it should be handled with care. It is susceptible to scratches and should be stored separately from harder gemstones. Moonstone can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Topaz
Topaz is a relatively hard gemstone (8 on the Mohs scale) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Topaz is durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Carnelian
Carnelian is fairly durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Carnelian can be worn daily but should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a relatively hard gemstone (8.5 on the Mohs scale) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Alexandrite is durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Ruby
Ruby is a very hard gemstone (9 on the Mohs scale) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Ruby is highly durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Diamond
Diamond is the hardest natural gemstone (10 on the Mohs scale) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is not sensitive to heat or chemicals and can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaners. Diamond is highly durable and can be worn daily with minimal risk of damage.
Conclusion
The August birthstones represent a fascinating intersection of history, culture, and gemology. From the vibrant green of peridot to the fiery red of ruby, these stones reflect the diverse traditions and beliefs that have shaped their significance over time. Whether used for their beauty, their symbolic meanings, or their protective properties, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for August highlights the evolving nature of gemstone traditions and the growing appreciation for the unique qualities of each stone. As gemology continues to advance and new discoveries are made, the legacy of August’s birthstones will undoubtedly continue to evolve as well.
For those born in August, the choice of a birthstone is not just a matter of aesthetics but also a personal connection to the rich history and symbolism of these remarkable gems.