For those born in August, the month is associated with three distinctive gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these stones carries a rich history, unique geological properties, and enduring cultural significance. Together, they form a diverse and captivating collection that reflects both the natural world and the enduring human fascination with gemstones. This article explores the gemological characteristics, historical lore, and contemporary relevance of these August birthstones, offering a comprehensive look at their roles in jewelry, symbolism, and care.
Introduction
August’s birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each have distinct identities shaped by their origins, physical properties, and cultural associations. Peridot, with its vivid green tones and cosmic connections, is one of the most visually striking of the three. Spinel, long misunderstood and often mistaken for ruby, has recently gained recognition for its brilliance and variety of colors. Sardonyx, an ancient stone used in Roman seals and cameos, continues to be valued for its durability and symbolic power.
These gemstones are not only prized for their beauty but also for their historical and metaphysical significance. Whether used in fine jewelry or as protective talismans, they have played important roles across cultures and centuries. This article will delve into their formation, sources, properties, and the ways in which they continue to be cherished in modern times.
History and Lore
Peridot: From Meteorites to the Moon
Peridot has a history that stretches back millennia and includes some of the most extraordinary geological phenomena. Known as the gem variety of the mineral olivine, peridot is notable for its formation under extreme conditions. It is found in the hardened lava that brought it from deep within the Earth’s mantle, as well as in meteorites that traveled from outer space. This cosmic origin has made peridot a particularly intriguing stone among gemologists and collectors.
The name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "gem," and the stone has been valued in many ancient and medieval cultures. It appeared in the jewelry of priests as early as the second century BCE and later in the chalices and churches of medieval Europe. Peridot was also used as a protective talisman, believed to shield the wearer from evil spirits and "terrors of the night."
One of the most fascinating historical associations with peridot involves the Egyptian island of Zabargad, formerly known as Topazios. This island, located in the Red Sea, was the oldest recorded source of peridot, with mining reportedly beginning around 340–279 BCE. The harsh conditions on the island earned it ominous names like "Island of Death" and "Ophiodes," or "Snake Island." Despite this, peridot from Zabargad was highly prized, and some of the finest specimens are still found in prestigious museums around the world.
Peridot’s association with ancient Egypt and Rome is particularly notable. The Romans referred to it as the "evening emerald" because its bright green color remained visible at night. The Egyptians, on the other hand, called it the "gem of the sun," and it has been speculated that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been composed of peridots. In fact, throughout much of recorded history, peridots have often been mistaken for emeralds, a confusion that was only resolved with the advancement of gemological science.
In 2007, a discovery in Tanzania brought new attention to peridot. Pinkish and orangy red spinel was found alongside peridot in purple and blue hues, enriching the diversity of gemstones associated with August. This discovery, while primarily about spinel, highlighted the continued importance of peridot in the gem trade and its enduring appeal.
Spinel: The Overlooked Gem
Spinel, another August birthstone, has a history that is both rich and underappreciated until recently. Often mistaken for ruby due to its similar red coloration, spinel has only recently begun to receive the recognition it deserves. The confusion between the two gems has led to many spinels being misidentified for centuries, and some of the most famous "rubies" in history may actually be spinel.
Spinel is a mineral with a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and even black. The 2007 discovery in Tanzania of pinkish and orangy red spinel was particularly significant, as it added to the already diverse palette of spinel and captured the attention of gem collectors. The mines in Tanzania also produce peridot in purple and blue hues, further expanding the August birthstone collection.
Spinel's durability is another important factor in its value. It is rated at 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for use in rings and other jewelry. This durability means that spinel can be worn daily without significant risk of damage, a quality that makes it an excellent alternative to ruby for those seeking a gemstone with a similar appearance but greater availability.
Spinel is also stable when exposed to light and chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade. This means that care must be taken when handling spinel during jewelry manufacturing or repair. For cleaning, ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but warm soapy water is always a safe alternative, especially if the stone has any fractures that might be exacerbated by stronger cleaning methods.
Sardonyx: An Ancient Gem
Sardonyx is the oldest of the August birthstones, with a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is a combination of two types of chalcedony—cryptocrystalline quartz—sard and onyx. The bands of brownish red to brown to dark orange sard alternate with typically white or black layers of onyx, creating a distinctive pattern that has been used for centuries in carvings and jewelry.
In ancient times, sardonyx was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings, as hot wax would not stick to it. This property made it particularly useful for imprinting wax seals on documents and letters. The stone's durability and ability to take a fine polish also made it a favorite for cameos and intaglios, where intricate designs could be carved into the contrasting layers.
Sardonyx has also been associated with spiritual and emotional strength. It is believed to represent the strength of spiritual life and was worn by Roman soldiers with the image of Mars carved on them for protection in battle. Today, sardonyx is associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication, bringing stability to marriage and partnerships.
One of the most notable historical references to sardonyx is its possible inclusion in the High Priest’s breastplate, as mentioned in the Old Testament. This association has contributed to its enduring symbolism and spiritual significance.
Sardonyx is found in many parts of the world, including India, Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. India is particularly notable for producing sardonyx with a good contrast between the different colored layers, making it especially desirable for jewelry and carvings.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: Earth and Space
Peridot is formed under extreme conditions, often found in the hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is also present in meteorites, which have brought it to Earth from outer space. This unique formation process gives peridot a cosmic origin that is rare among gemstones.
Most of the peridot seen in jewelry today comes from sources such as China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. Some of the most notable deposits are found in the United States, particularly at Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue. This natural phenomenon highlights the beauty and abundance of peridot in certain locations.
The Egyptian island of Zabargad, now known as St. John’s Island in the Red Sea, is one of the oldest recorded sources of peridot. The island’s harsh conditions and the stone’s historical significance have made it a site of both geological and cultural interest. Despite the challenges of mining on Zabargad, the peridot produced there is highly prized and has been used in some of the most prestigious jewelry collections in history.
Spinel: A Diverse Palette
Spinel is a mineral that can be found in a wide range of colors, from red and pink to orange, yellow, green, blue, and black. Its versatility makes it a valuable gemstone for jewelry designers and collectors. The discovery of pinkish and orangy red spinel in Tanzania in 2007 added to the diversity of this gemstone and attracted attention from the gemological community.
Spinel is formed in a variety of geological settings, including igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is often found in association with other gemstones, such as corundum and ruby. The presence of spinel in these environments can make it challenging to distinguish from other red gems, a factor that has contributed to its historical misidentification.
The durability of spinel, rated at 8 on the Mohs scale, makes it suitable for use in rings and other jewelry that is worn regularly. This hardness also means that spinel can be polished to a high luster, enhancing its brilliance and making it an attractive alternative to ruby.
Sardonyx: Layers of Beauty
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of cryptocrystalline quartz that is composed of sard and onyx. The alternating bands of sard and onyx create a distinctive pattern that is ideal for carvings and cameos. Sardonyx is typically found in sedimentary rock formations, where it is formed over long periods of time through the deposition of silica-rich water.
India is one of the most notable sources of sardonyx, producing stones with a good contrast between the different colored layers. This contrast makes Indian sardonyx particularly desirable for jewelry and carvings. Other notable sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
The durability of sardonyx, rated at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, makes it suitable for use in jewelry, though care should be taken when wearing it, especially as a ring. Sardonyx is also commonly dyed to enhance its color, and high heat can affect the stability of these dyes. As a result, caution is recommended when using ultrasonic or steam cleaners on sardonyx, with warm soapy water being the safest option.
Gemological Properties
Peridot: A Radiant Green Gem
Peridot is known for its vibrant green color, which ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow. This color is due to the presence of iron in the gemstone, which is a key component of the olivine mineral group. The name "olivine" is derived from the French word "olive," referring to the stone’s characteristic green hue.
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable but not as hard as some other gemstones. It is also known for its high double refraction, which means that when viewed through the stone, the facets appear as two images. This property can be used to distinguish peridot from other green gemstones, such as emerald or topaz.
Peridot is not light-dependent, meaning that its color remains consistent in all lighting conditions. This is a rare characteristic among colored gemstones, making peridot particularly valuable for jewelry that is worn in a variety of settings. The stone’s refractive index ranges from 1.650 to 1.690, and it is typically transparent to translucent.
Spinel: A Versatile and Durable Gem
Spinel is a gemstone that is known for its wide range of colors and its durability. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the more durable gemstones and suitable for use in rings and other jewelry that is worn regularly. Spinel is also stable when exposed to light and chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade.
Spinel has a refractive index that ranges from 1.718 to 1.755, which is higher than that of many other gemstones. This gives it a brilliant luster and makes it an attractive choice for jewelry. The stone is also known for its lack of cleavage, meaning that it is less prone to chipping or breaking than some other gemstones.
One of the most notable features of spinel is its variety of colors. While it is most commonly associated with red and pink hues, it can also be found in orange, yellow, green, blue, and even black. This diversity makes spinel a versatile gemstone that can be used in a wide range of jewelry designs.
Sardonyx: A Layered Stone
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of cryptocrystalline quartz that is composed of sard and onyx. The alternating bands of sard and onyx create a distinctive pattern that is ideal for carvings and cameos. Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry, though care should be taken when wearing it, especially as a ring.
Sardonyx is typically found in sedimentary rock formations and is formed over long periods of time through the deposition of silica-rich water. The stone is also commonly dyed to enhance its color, and high heat can affect the stability of these dyes. As a result, caution is recommended when using ultrasonic or steam cleaners on sardonyx, with warm soapy water being the safest option.
Sardonyx has a refractive index that ranges from 1.486 to 1.530, which is relatively low compared to other gemstones. This gives it a subtle luster that is well-suited to cameos and intaglios, where the stone’s ability to take a fine polish is particularly important.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: A Stone of Strength and Renewal
Peridot has long been associated with strength and renewal, making it a symbol of resilience and transformation. In ancient times, it was used as a protective talisman, believed to shield the wearer from evil spirits and "terrors of the night." This belief has persisted in some cultures, where peridot is still considered a stone of protection and positivity.
Peridot is also associated with the sun, as it was referred to as the "gem of the sun" by the ancient Egyptians. This connection to the sun has contributed to its symbolism of energy, vitality, and clarity. In modern times, peridot is often used in jewelry to celebrate a 15th wedding anniversary, further emphasizing its role as a symbol of enduring love and strength.
The stone’s cosmic origin also adds to its mystique and symbolic significance. The fact that peridot can be found in meteorites and in the hardened lava of the Earth’s mantle makes it a unique gemstone that is associated with the vastness of space and the power of nature.
Spinel: A Gem of Passion and Power
Spinel, with its vibrant colors and durable nature, is often associated with passion, power, and protection. The stone’s association with ruby has contributed to its symbolic significance, as ruby has long been associated with love, courage, and vitality. Spinel, with its similar red hues, shares many of these symbolic meanings.
Spinel is also believed to have healing properties, particularly for the heart and circulatory system. Some metaphysical traditions suggest that spinel can help to calm the mind and reduce stress, making it a valuable stone for those seeking emotional balance and well-being. The stone’s durability and versatility also make it a symbol of strength and adaptability.
In modern times, spinel is increasingly being used in jewelry as an alternative to ruby and other more expensive gemstones. This has contributed to its growing popularity and has helped to elevate its status in the gem world. As a result, spinel is now being recognized not only for its beauty but also for its symbolic and metaphysical significance.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Courage and Clarity
Sardonyx has long been associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication. In ancient times, it was worn by Roman soldiers with the image of Mars carved on them for protection in battle. This association with strength and courage has persisted in modern times, where sardonyx is still considered a stone of protection and resilience.
Sardonyx is also believed to bring stability to marriage and partnerships, making it a valuable stone for those seeking harmony and balance in their relationships. Its association with clear communication has made it a popular choice for those who want to improve their ability to express themselves and understand others.
Sardonyx is also associated with spiritual life, with some traditions believing that it represents the strength of the soul and the ability to overcome challenges. This symbolism has contributed to its use in religious and spiritual contexts, where it is often used in jewelry and carvings that are meant to inspire and protect the wearer.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot: Gentle Handling for a Durable Gem
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but not as hard as some other gemstones. To maintain its beauty and longevity, it is important to handle peridot with care. The stone should be removed before showering, swimming, or exercising, as exposure to water and chemicals can dull its luster.
Peridot should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches, as its hardness is not as high as that of harder gems like diamond or corundum. When cleaning peridot, it is best to use warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but they should be used with caution, as the presence of fractures can make the stone more susceptible to damage.
Peridot is also sensitive to high heat, which can cause some colors to fade. As a result, care should be taken when handling peridot during jewelry manufacturing or repair. This sensitivity makes it important to use gentle techniques when working with the stone to ensure its longevity and beauty.
Spinel: A Durable and Easy-to-Care-for Gem
Spinel is one of the more durable August birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for use in rings and other jewelry that is worn regularly. Despite its durability, spinel can be affected by high heat, which can cause some colors to fade. As a result, care should be taken when handling spinel during jewelry manufacturing or repair.
Spinel is also stable when exposed to light and chemicals, making it relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though warm soapy water is always a safe alternative. When storing spinel, it should be kept separate from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. This is particularly important for red and pink spinel, which can be more delicate than other colors.
Spinel is also known for its lack of cleavage, meaning that it is less prone to chipping or breaking than some other gemstones. This makes it a particularly durable choice for everyday wear. However, it is still important to handle spinel with care, especially when it is set in jewelry that is worn regularly.
Sardonyx: A Stone That Requires Gentle Care
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry, though care should be taken when wearing it, especially as a ring. The stone is also commonly dyed to enhance its color, and high heat can affect the stability of these dyes. As a result, caution is recommended when using ultrasonic or steam cleaners on sardonyx, with warm soapy water being the safest option.
Sardonyx should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches, as its hardness is not as high as that of harder gems like diamond or corundum. When cleaning sardonyx, it is best to use a soft-bristle brush and warm soapy water to avoid damaging the stone. This is particularly important for dyed sardonyx, as harsh cleaning methods can cause the color to fade.
Sardonyx is also known for its ability to take a fine polish, making it an ideal stone for carvings and cameos. However, this also means that it is sensitive to scratches and should be handled with care. When working with sardonyx, it is important to use gentle techniques to ensure its longevity and beauty.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each have a unique identity shaped by their history, geological properties, and cultural significance. Peridot, with its vibrant green color and cosmic origin, is a gemstone that has been cherished for millennia. Spinel, once overlooked and often mistaken for ruby, is now gaining the recognition it deserves for its brilliance and versatility. Sardonyx, an ancient stone used in Roman seals and cameos, continues to be valued for its durability and symbolic power.
These gemstones are not only beautiful but also meaningful, carrying with them the weight of history and the promise of protection and positivity. Whether used in fine jewelry or as protective talismans, they have played important roles across cultures and centuries. Their continued popularity in modern times is a testament to their enduring appeal and the deep connection that people have with gemstones.
For those born in August, these stones offer a connection to the past and a celebration of the present. Whether worn as a necklace, a ring, or a pair of earrings, they serve as reminders of the beauty, strength, and resilience that these gemstones symbolize. As the gemological community continues to explore and appreciate these stones, their legacy will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly for generations to come.