August boasts a unique distinction among birthstones: not one, but three gemstones represent the month – peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. While peridot holds the position as the most traditionally recognized August birthstone, sardonyx carries a history stretching back millennia, and spinel is a more recent addition to the list, officially recognized in 2016. Each stone possesses distinct characteristics, origins, and symbolic meanings, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in August. This article will explore the history, geological sources, gemological properties, and significance of these three captivating gemstones.
History and Lore
Sardonyx holds the longest documented history of the three, with evidence of its use dating back over 4,000 years to the 2nd Dynasty of Egypt. Ancient Egyptians valued sardonyx for its perceived healing properties, specifically believing it could aid in bone healing. Its practical application as a material for seals and signet rings was also highly valued, as hot wax would not adhere to its surface. The stone’s significance extended into religious contexts, appearing in the Old Testament as one of the stones adorning the High Priest’s breastplate, symbolizing spiritual strength. Roman soldiers utilized sardonyx rings engraved with the image of Mars, believing the stone offered protection in battle. During the Renaissance, sardonyx was favored by orators and public speakers, who believed it enhanced eloquence, and was thought to aid in attracting a spouse and fostering marital happiness.
Peridot’s history is often intertwined with that of emerald and topaz, as it was frequently misidentified as these other gems throughout history. The Red Sea island of Topazios, from which the name “topaz” is derived, was actually a significant source of peridot. Notably, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral features 200 carats of gems once believed to be emeralds, but now confirmed as peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have included substantial quantities of peridot.
Spinel’s recognition as a birthstone is relatively recent. For centuries, red spinel was often mistaken for ruby, and blue spinel for sapphire. It wasn’t until more recent times that spinel was recognized as a distinct mineral species. However, its history is still rich, with significant deposits discovered in locations like Myanmar, where vibrant red spinel was particularly prized. Spinel has traditionally been considered a gift for 22nd wedding anniversaries.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sardonyx is a variety of onyx, composed of banded chalcedony – specifically, layers of reddish-brown sard alternating with white or black onyx. The primary source of sardonyx today is India, known for producing stones with strong color contrast between the bands. Additional sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
Peridot forms under extreme conditions, originating in the hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle. It can also be found in meteorites, demonstrating its extraterrestrial origins.
Spinel is sourced from a variety of locations worldwide. Myanmar is renowned for producing spinel in arresting colors, particularly hot pink and red. Sri Lanka yields blue, pink, and purple spinel, primarily from the rolling hills of the Central Highlands and river gravels in the Ratnapura District. Northern Vietnam’s Luc Yen region is known for deep red, purple, pink, vivid blue, violet, and violet-blue spinel. Tanzania has also emerged as a source, with discoveries of pinkish and orangy-red spinel in 2007. Other sources include Tajikistan, and Pakistan.
Gemological Properties
Sardonyx, being a form of chalcedony, exhibits a more stone-like appearance compared to the crystal-like appearance of peridot. Its composition is a mixture of sard and onyx, creating its distinctive banded pattern.
Peridot is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. It consistently maintains its green color under various lighting conditions due to the presence of iron in its composition.
Spinel presents a remarkable range of colors, including intense red, vivid pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. Its structural shape is derived from the Latin word "spina," meaning "thorn." Spinel is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar color range and brilliance, but it possesses a different crystal structure and is generally more affordable.
While specific gemological data like refractive index and hardness are not provided in the sources, the descriptions suggest variations in luster and transparency between the three stones. Peridot and spinel are described as having a more crystalline appearance, while sardonyx is described as more stone-like.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx has long been associated with strength, courage, and protection. Ancient Romans believed it offered protection in battle, while Renaissance-era individuals attributed powers of eloquence to the stone. It was also believed to aid in attracting a spouse and maintaining a happy marriage.
Peridot is often associated with abundance, protection, and positivity.
Spinel, while having a shorter documented history of symbolic meaning, is associated with vibrant energy and is considered a traditional gift for 22nd wedding anniversaries.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for each stone. However, given the differences in hardness and composition, it can be inferred that each gem requires different levels of care. Further research would be needed to provide detailed cleaning and maintenance advice.
Conclusion
August’s three birthstones – peridot, sardonyx, and spinel – represent a rich tapestry of history, geological origins, and symbolic meanings. Sardonyx, with its ancient roots and association with strength and courage, offers a connection to the past. Peridot, with its vibrant green hue and association with abundance, provides a sense of positivity. Spinel, with its diverse colors and recent recognition, offers a modern and exciting choice. Together, these three gemstones embody the multifaceted nature of August and provide a unique and meaningful selection for those born under this summer month.