August, the eighth month of the year, is one of the few months in the calendar that boasts not one, but three official birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each of these gemstones carries a unique history, a distinct set of physical properties, and a rich tapestry of cultural and metaphysical significance. This diversity reflects the evolving nature of birthstone traditions and the growing appreciation for gemstones as both scientific marvels and symbols of personal identity. For those born in August, these stones offer a choice of gemstones that range from the fiery reds and blacks of sardonyx to the vibrant greens of peridot and the deep reds of spinel.
This article delves into the world of August’s birthstones, exploring their historical roots, geological origins, and symbolic meanings. We will examine the physical properties that make each gemstone unique and discuss the care required to preserve their beauty. Additionally, we will explore the metaphysical beliefs associated with each stone, as well as the reasons behind the inclusion of multiple birthstones for August.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with early references found in biblical texts and Roman literature. In the case of August, the original birthstone was sardonyx, a banded chalcedony that has been prized for millennia. Sardonyx, composed of layers of sard and onyx, was valued not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its symbolic significance. Ancient cultures believed that sardonyx could protect against evil, inspire courage, and promote self-control.
Sardonyx was used in jewelry and amulets by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. In Roman times, it was particularly popular among the elite, who wore it as a sign of power and status. The stone was also believed to have protective properties, especially for warriors and travelers. By the early 20th century, sardonyx remained a prominent birthstone for August, but the growing field of gemology and the increasing availability of other gemstones led to a reevaluation of the birthstone list.
In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) officially updated the list of birthstones, introducing peridot as an additional birthstone for August. This decision was influenced by peridot’s vibrant green color and its connection to volcanic activity, making it a fitting symbol for the warm month of August. Peridot had long been known to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Romans, who attributed various powers and meanings to it. However, it was not until the 1912 revision that peridot was officially recognized as a birthstone for the eighth month.
Decades later, in 2016, the birthstone list for August was further expanded to include spinel. This addition was driven by a desire to highlight spinel as a gemstone in its own right, rather than as a substitute for ruby. Spinel, which is often mistaken for ruby due to its similar appearance, has a rich history and unique properties that make it a valuable addition to the August birthstone lineup. The inclusion of spinel reflects a broader trend in the jewelry industry to educate consumers about lesser-known gemstones and to appreciate them for their intrinsic qualities rather than their resemblance to more famous stones.
The decision to assign multiple birthstones to August was not arbitrary. It reflects a combination of historical usage, gemological advancements, and the desire to offer a wider range of options to consumers. Today, August is one of the few months with three official birthstones, a distinction that underscores the month’s rich connection to gemstones and their enduring appeal.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of August’s birthstones has a unique geological origin and is found in distinct locations around the world. Understanding how these gemstones are formed and where they are mined provides valuable insight into their rarity, beauty, and value.
Peridot
Peridot is the green gem variety of the mineral olivine, and it is one of the few gemstones that can be found in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments. The most common source of peridot is volcanic rock, where it forms under high heat and pressure. Peridot is often found in lava flows and in the mantle of the Earth, where it is carried to the surface through tectonic activity. Interestingly, peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that originate from outer space.
The United States, particularly Arizona, is a major source of peridot. The state’s volcanic history has created ideal conditions for the formation of peridot, and the gemstone has been mined there for decades. Other notable sources include Egypt, Burma (Myanmar), and Brazil. Peridot is relatively abundant compared to other gemstones, but its vibrant color and unique formation make it highly valued in the jewelry industry.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is formed through the slow deposition of silica in sedimentary rock, often in the presence of iron and other minerals. This process results in the characteristic banding of sardonyx, which typically features layers of reddish-brown sard and white onyx.
The primary sources of sardonyx are India, Brazil, and the United States. India has been a significant source of sardonyx for centuries, and the stone has been used in traditional jewelry and religious artifacts. Brazil is another major producer, with its deposits yielding high-quality sardonyx that is widely used in the global jewelry market. Sardonyx is also found in smaller quantities in Europe and the Middle East.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that forms in igneous rocks, particularly in basalt and other volcanic rocks. It is created through the cooling and solidification of magma, a process that allows for the formation of a wide range of colors. The red varieties of spinel, which are often mistaken for ruby, are particularly prized for their brilliance and color.
The most famous source of spinel is Burma (Myanmar), where large deposits of the gemstone have been found. Other notable sources include Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Vietnam. Spinel is relatively rare compared to other gemstones, and high-quality specimens with intense color and clarity are highly sought after in the jewelry industry.
The geological origins of these gemstones highlight the natural processes that create their unique properties and colors. From the volcanic activity that forms peridot to the sedimentary conditions that give sardonyx its banding, each stone tells a story of the Earth’s dynamic history.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of August’s birthstones provide a scientific basis for understanding their beauty, durability, and value. These properties include color, hardness, refractive index, and chemical composition, all of which contribute to the gemstone’s appearance and suitability for jewelry.
Peridot
Peridot is known for its vibrant green color, which ranges from a light yellow-green to a deep olive-green. This color is due to the presence of iron in its chemical composition. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still requiring care to avoid scratches and damage. It has a refractive index of 1.65 to 1.70 and a specific gravity of 3.30 to 4.60, which contributes to its luster and brilliance.
Peridot is a uniaxial gemstone, meaning it has a single optic axis, and it is often cut into faceted shapes to enhance its sparkle. Its pleochroism, the ability to show different colors when viewed from different angles, is a distinctive feature that adds to its visual appeal. Peridot is also relatively easy to find in larger sizes, making it a popular choice for rings, pendants, and other jewelry pieces.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded form of chalcedony, and it is composed of layers of sard and onyx. The sard layer gives the stone its reddish-brown color, while the onyx layer provides a white or pale base. Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry. It has a refractive index of 1.53 to 1.54 and a specific gravity of 2.58 to 2.64.
Sardonyx is typically cut into cabochons or beads, as its banding and contrast make it ideal for these styles. The stone’s durability and affordability make it a popular choice for rings, bracelets, and other everyday jewelry. Sardonyx is also known for its chatoyancy, a cat’s-eye effect that can be seen in some specimens, adding to its visual appeal.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and black. The red varieties of spinel are particularly striking, with a deep, intense color that rivals ruby. Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for use in rings and other jewelry. It has a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.736 and a specific gravity of 3.60 to 4.00.
Spinel is a doubly refractive gemstone, meaning it has two optic axes, and it is often cut into brilliant or modified brilliant shapes to maximize its fire and brilliance. The stone’s clarity and color are key factors in determining its value, with high-quality spinel being highly prized in the jewelry industry. Spinel is also relatively rare, especially in large sizes, making it a valuable and desirable gemstone.
The gemological properties of these stones provide insight into their appearance, durability, and value. Whether it’s the vibrant green of peridot, the banded beauty of sardonyx, or the fiery red of spinel, each gemstone has its own unique set of characteristics that contribute to its appeal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs, rooted in cultural traditions and spiritual practices, have contributed to the enduring popularity of gemstones as symbols of identity, protection, and personal transformation.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with light, vitality, and positive energy. In ancient Rome, peridot was believed to symbolize eternal youth and clarity of mind. The stone’s golden-green glow was thought to represent the renewal of nature and the energy of the sun, making it a powerful symbol of regeneration and life force.
In modern times, peridot is often used in crystal healing to promote emotional balance and physical well-being. It is believed to help reduce stress, release negative emotions, and strengthen the immune system. Peridot is also associated with the heart chakra, where it is thought to enhance feelings of love, compassion, and inner peace. The stone is particularly recommended for those seeking emotional renewal and positive energy, making it a fitting birthstone for August.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has a long history of being associated with protection, courage, and self-control. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune to its wearer. The stone was particularly valued by warriors and travelers, who carried it as a talisman for protection and strength.
Sardonyx is also associated with discipline and self-control, making it a popular stone for those seeking to overcome challenges and maintain focus. It is believed to help with decision-making, enhance confidence, and promote a sense of stability. In some traditions, sardonyx is also associated with the solar plexus chakra, where it is thought to support personal power and self-assurance.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively new addition to the August birthstone list, but it has a rich history of symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. The red varieties of spinel are often associated with passion, energy, and vitality, making them a powerful symbol of life force and courage. In some traditions, spinel is believed to enhance confidence, attract good fortune, and promote emotional stability.
Spinel is also associated with the heart chakra and is thought to help with emotional healing and the release of negative emotions. The stone is believed to promote a sense of calm and inner peace, making it a valuable tool for those seeking balance and harmony in their lives. Spinels with a deep red color are particularly prized for their ability to enhance vitality and passion, making them a fitting symbol for the warm and vibrant month of August.
The symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties of these gemstones reflect their enduring appeal and the deep cultural significance they hold. Whether used for protection, healing, or personal transformation, these stones continue to be cherished for their beauty and symbolic power.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of August’s birthstones. Each gemstone has its own specific requirements for cleaning and storage, based on its hardness, sensitivity to heat, and potential for damage from chemicals or abrasives.
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. However, it is still sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods. To clean peridot, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the gemstone.
Peridot should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. It is also advisable to avoid wearing peridot during activities that may subject it to impact or abrasion, such as sports or manual labor.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is not particularly sensitive to heat or light, making it a good choice for everyday wear. To clean sardonyx, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the surface of the stone.
Sardonyx should be stored in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is also advisable to store sardonyx separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
Spinel is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. It is not particularly sensitive to heat or light, but it should still be handled with care. To clean spinel, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the gemstone.
Spinel should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. It is also advisable to avoid exposing spinel to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the surface of the stone.
Proper care and cleaning are essential to preserving the beauty and value of these gemstones. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your August birthstone remains a cherished and lasting symbol of your identity and personal style.
Conclusion
The birthstones of August—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the month’s warm and vibrant character. Each stone has a unique history, a distinct set of physical properties, and a deep cultural and symbolic significance. From the fiery reds and blacks of sardonyx to the brilliant green of peridot and the deep red of spinel, these gemstones provide a wide range of options for those born in August and for anyone who appreciates the beauty and meaning of gemstones.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for August reflects the evolving nature of birthstone traditions and the growing appreciation for gemstones as both scientific marvels and symbols of personal identity. Whether you choose peridot for its connection to the sun, sardonyx for its protective qualities, or spinel for its vibrant red color, each of these gemstones carries a unique legacy that can be passed down through generations.
As gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, we can appreciate the beauty and significance of these stones while also understanding the science and history that make them so special. Whether worn as jewelry, used in crystal healing, or simply admired for their natural beauty, the birthstones of August continue to captivate and inspire those who encounter them.