August boasts a unique distinction among the birthstone months: it possesses not one, but three recognized birthstones – Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel. While Peridot and Sardonyx have historical precedence, Spinel was officially added as an August birthstone in 2016, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in this summer month. Each stone carries its own distinct history, geological origins, and symbolic meanings, making August a particularly rich month for gemstone enthusiasts. This article will delve into the characteristics of each of these August birthstones, exploring their origins, properties, and significance.
A Historical Perspective
The history of August birthstones is layered. Sardonyx holds the longest claim, being the original August birthstone. Peridot was later added as a widely recognized alternative. The most recent addition, Spinel, brings a modern vibrancy to the selection. The practice of associating gemstones with specific months evolved over time, initially linked to astrological beliefs and the perceived influence of planets. Ancient and medieval astrologers assigned gemstones to the planets, believing them to reflect celestial energies and connect individuals to constellations. While these original zodiac stones and birthstones were once synonymous, the modern system often features precious gems as standard birthstones, while zodiac stones lean towards semi-precious varieties.
Peridot: The Stone of Creative Expression
Peridot, the modern and more familiar August birthstone, is a vibrant green gemstone prized for its cheerful energy. Its color ranges from yellowish-green to brown, though the most desirable stones exhibit a lime green or olive-green hue. In terms of visual similarity, the Fancy Vivid Yellowish Green diamond is often used as a comparison for Peridot’s color. Peridot is unique among gemstones, alongside diamonds, in being formed within the Earth’s crust through volcanic activity.
Historically, Peridot was believed to possess properties that fostered joy and positivity, and was considered a stone of creative expression and eloquence. Some modern interpretations suggest Peridot can be used to detoxify, boost metabolism, or regenerate low spirits, though these claims are not widely accepted within formal gemology.
Sardonyx: Bands of Strength and Comfort
Sardonyx is a composite gemstone, formed by alternating bands of sard (a reddish variety of chalcedony) and onyx. These bands typically range from brownish-red to dark orange, contrasted with white or black layers of onyx. The name “sardonyx” itself reflects this composition, derived from the combination of “sard” and “onyx.”
Historically, India has been the primary producer of Sardonyx, particularly stones exhibiting strong contrast between the colored layers. Additional sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. The reddish-brown color of Sardonyx is believed to embody both comfort and power.
Spinel: A Newly Recognized Gem
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone family, officially recognized in 2016. This gemstone is notable for its impressive range of colors, including intense red, vivid pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. The name “Spinel” originates from the Latin word “spina,” meaning “thorn,” referencing the structural shape of some spinel crystals.
Spinel is sourced from several locations worldwide, including Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Myanmar is particularly renowned for producing Spinel in arresting colors like hot pink and red. Sri Lanka yields blue, pink, and purple Spinel, often found in the rolling hills of the Central Highlands and river gravels of the Ratnapura District. Northern Vietnam’s Luc Yen region is known for deep red, purple, pink, vivid blue, violet, and violet-blue Spinel. In 2007, pinkish and orangy-red Spinel was discovered in Tanzania. Spinel is also a traditional gift for a 22nd wedding anniversary.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
The three August birthstones differ significantly in their gemological properties. Here’s a comparative overview:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | Green (yellowish-green to olive-green) | 6.5-7 |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ (Chalcedony – a variety of Quartz) | Banded reddish-brown and white/black | 6-7 |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, bluish-green | 8 |
The Mohs hardness scale indicates a gemstone’s resistance to scratching. Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is the most durable of the three, followed by Peridot and Sardonyx (6.5-7). This difference in hardness impacts their suitability for various types of jewelry and their susceptibility to wear and tear.
Symbolism and Meaning
Each of the August birthstones carries unique symbolic meanings. Peridot is associated with joy, positivity, and creative expression. Sardonyx embodies strength, comfort, and courage. Spinel, with its diverse colors, represents vitality, renewal, and protection. These symbolic associations contribute to the enduring appeal of these gemstones and their significance as birthstones.
Jewelry and Aesthetics
Peridot and Sardonyx offer distinct aesthetic qualities in jewelry. Peridot’s crystal-like appearance lends itself to elegant designs, while Sardonyx possesses a more earthy and rustic feel. The vast difference between the two stones provides a wide range of jewelry options. Diamonds and Tanzanite can be terrific additions to these gems, especially to the Peridot. While not as popular as diamonds, emeralds, rubies, or amethysts, Peridot and Sardonyx are beautiful stones that are delightful to incorporate in birthstone jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness levels, each August birthstone requires specific care. Spinel, being the hardest, is relatively durable and can withstand regular wear. Peridot and Sardonyx, being softer, are more susceptible to scratches and should be handled with care. All three gemstones can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stones.
Conclusion
The August birthstones – Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient origins of Sardonyx to the modern appeal of Spinel and the vibrant energy of Peridot, these gemstones offer a diverse range of choices for those born in August. Each stone possesses unique properties and aesthetic qualities, making them cherished additions to any jewelry collection and meaningful symbols of the month of August.