August, the month of summer's peak and celestial abundance, is uniquely distinguished in the world of gemstones by its trio of birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While most months are associated with a single birthstone, August is remarkable for its historical richness and diversity in gemstone selection. These stones have captivated jewelers, historians, and metaphysical practitioners for centuries, each with its own geological origins, cultural significance, and symbolic meaning.
This article explores the origins, properties, and lore surrounding the three August birthstones. We will delve into how these gemstones formed, where they are found, and how they have been used across history. Additionally, we will examine their symbolic meanings and how they are cared for in modern jewelry. This guide is tailored for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology seeking a deeper understanding of these radiant stones.
History and Lore
August’s gemstone tradition is one of the most varied and historically rich among the months. The concept of birthstones is believed to have originated from biblical references, particularly the High Priest’s breastplate in Exodus, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While the exact match of these ancient stones to modern birthstones remains debated, the tradition evolved over centuries, incorporating cultural, religious, and mineralogical influences.
Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, has a history stretching back over 4,000 years. It was highly valued in ancient Egypt during the Second Dynasty, where it was believed to possess healing properties—particularly for bone-related ailments. The Greeks and Romans also revered sardonyx, engraving it with images of deities and using it as a protective talisman in battle. During the Renaissance, sardonyx became associated with eloquence and was worn by public speakers and orators for clarity of thought and effective communication.
Peridot, the modern August birthstone, gained popularity in the 20th century but has a long and storied past. Known as the “gem of the Sun” by the ancient Egyptians, peridot was believed to have healing powers and was often used to ward off nightmares and enchantments. The Hawaiians attributed its formation to the goddess Pele, believing the stones were the tears of the fire goddess, brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot has also been found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones with a direct extraterrestrial origin.
Spinel, the newest addition to August’s birthstone lineup, was officially recognized in 2016. For centuries, it was mistaken for ruby and other red gemstones due to its similar color and brilliance. Once its unique identity was acknowledged, spinel became a sought-after alternative to more expensive stones. Its vibrant colors and durability have made it a favorite among modern jewelers and collectors.
Together, these three gemstones offer a rich tapestry of symbolism and history, making August one of the most intriguing months in the birthstone tradition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of a gemstone is key to appreciating its rarity and beauty. Each of August’s birthstones has a distinct formation process and geographical distribution.
Peridot
Peridot is the yellowish green to greenish yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate. It is formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth’s mantle, where temperatures and pressures are high. Peridot is brought to the surface by volcanic activity, often found in hardened lava or in meteorites. This makes peridot one of the few gemstones that can be both terrestrial and extraterrestrial in origin.
The most notable sources of peridot include Hawaii, Arizona, and the Red Sea islands. In Hawaii, peridot is found in volcanic rock, and in Arizona, it is mined from basaltic lava flows. The Red Sea island of Topazios—now known as Zabargad—was historically a source of peridot and may have even contributed to the name “topaz,” due to a confusion between the two gems in ancient times.
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that can form in a wide range of colors, depending on the iron content. The most prized peridots are those with a vibrant green hue, as opposed to a more yellowish or brownish tone.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is composed of alternating bands of red sard and white onyx, giving it a distinctive banded appearance. The red coloration comes from iron oxide, while the white is due to the pure quartz structure.
Sardonyx is typically found in volcanic rocks, where it forms through the slow deposition of silica-rich fluids. The ancient Egyptians mined sardonyx from the Desert of the Nile, and it remains a popular gemstone in regions such as India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.
Its durability and ability to take a fine polish made it a popular choice for engraved seals and talismans in ancient times. Sardonyx is relatively abundant compared to other gemstones, which contributes to its affordability and widespread use in jewelry.
Spinel
Spinel is a oxide mineral composed of magnesium aluminum oxide, with a wide range of colors due to trace elements such as iron, chromium, and cobalt. The most famous varieties include red, pink, and blue spinel, though it can also appear in colors such as orange, yellow, and even black.
Spinel forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, typically in areas where high temperatures and pressures have altered the rock structure. It is found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Nigeria, with some of the most famous historical specimens coming from Afghanistan and Burma.
Unlike peridot and sardonyx, spinel is a synthetic gemstone in the sense that it does not occur in a wide range of natural colors. However, it is still highly valued for its brilliance and durability, and its relatively affordable price compared to ruby or sapphire makes it an appealing alternative.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of a stone—its hardness, refractive index, chemical composition, and color—play a crucial role in its use in jewelry and its overall appeal. Here is a detailed breakdown of the properties of each August birthstone.
Peridot
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Mg₁.₉Fe₀.₁SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 |
| Color | Yellowish green to greenish yellow (best in vivid green) |
| Refractive Index | 1.65–1.70 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
Peridot is known for its glassy luster and its distinctive green color, which is caused by iron impurities in the crystal structure. It has a moderate hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear, though it is more susceptible to scratches and abrasion than harder gemstones like sapphire or diamond.
Sardonyx
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ (Quartz) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 |
| Color | Banded red and white (sard and onyx) |
| Refractive Index | 1.48–1.53 |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. It is known for its distinctive banded patterns, which can vary in thickness and color intensity. It has a moderate hardness and a relatively low refractive index, making it less brilliant than stones like diamond or ruby. However, its polishability and durability make it ideal for engraved rings and pendants.
Spinel
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 |
| Color | Red, pink, blue, orange, yellow, black |
| Refractive Index | 1.718–1.731 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Crystal System | Isometric (cubic) |
Spinel is a hard and durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more suitable for everyday wear than peridot. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant sparkle, and its wide range of colors makes it a versatile gemstone. Red spinel, in particular, is often mistaken for ruby, and some of the most famous “rubies” in history—such as the “Balas Ruby”—are actually red spinel.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Gemstones have long been associated with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, and August’s birthstones are no exception. Each stone carries its own unique energy and symbolism, which has been passed down through generations.
Peridot
Peridot is often referred to as the stone of transformation and is believed to bring clarity, balance, and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was used as a protection stone, believed to ward off nightmares and negative influences. It is also associated with inner strength and self-acceptance, making it an ideal stone for those undergoing personal growth or change.
In modern metaphysical practices, peridot is used to enhance creativity, promote optimism, and encourage forgiveness. It is also believed to aid in manifesting one’s dreams, making it a popular stone for goal-setting and visualization.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a powerful protective stone, often used to enhance confidence, courage, and willpower. In ancient times, it was worn by warriors and orators to promote clear communication and eloquence. It is also believed to strengthen relationships, bringing stability and harmony to partnerships and marriages.
The banded nature of sardonyx is said to represent the balance between action and rest, emotion and logic, making it an ideal stone for those seeking inner stability and emotional resilience. It is also associated with creativity and motivation, encouraging one to pursue their passions with determination.
Spinel
Spinel is a stone of vitality and energy, believed to enhance physical strength, emotional stability, and mental clarity. It is particularly popular among those seeking inner balance and emotional healing, as it is said to soothe anxiety and promote a sense of calm and security.
In some traditions, spinel is considered a stone of passion and love, believed to deepen romantic connections and enhance emotional intimacy. It is also associated with joy and optimism, making it a popular choice for those seeking to uplift their mood and attract positive energy.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry. The care requirements for peridot, sardonyx, and spinel vary due to their different hardness and chemical properties.
Peridot
Peridot has a moderate hardness (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale) and is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, making it more susceptible to scratches and abrasions. It is also soluble in acid, so it should be avoided in acidic environments.
To clean peridot jewelry, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage. Store peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is more durable than peridot, with a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. It is not soluble in acid, making it more resistant to chemical damage. However, it is still susceptible to scratches, so it should be stored separately from harder gemstones.
To clean sardonyx, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as this can dull its surface.
Spinel
Spinel is one of the hardest August birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. It is also resistant to heat and chemicals, making it easier to clean and maintain than peridot or sardonyx.
To clean spinel jewelry, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth, or a mild jewelry cleaning solution. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used with caution, as long as the stone is not treated or heat-sensitive.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each offer a unique combination of geological wonder, historical significance, and symbolic meaning. From the fiery red of spinel to the vibrant green of peridot and the banded elegance of sardonyx, these gemstones represent the richness and diversity of the mineral world.
Whether you are drawn to their aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, or historical legacy, August’s birthstones provide a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of geology, culture, and human history. Whether worn as jewelry, used in meditation, or simply admired for their beauty, these gemstones continue to inspire and captivate all who encounter them.