August is a month rich in gemstone tradition, offering not one, but three beautiful birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history, geological properties, and symbolic meaning, making them a fascinating subject for gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. Whether you are born in August or simply drawn to the allure of these stones, understanding their characteristics and significance can help you choose the perfect piece of jewelry that resonates with your personal style and values.
This article explores the origins and evolution of the August birthstones, delving into their geological formation, historical use, cultural symbolism, and modern significance. We also examine their gemological properties and provide guidance on how to care for these precious stones. By the end of this guide, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the three August birthstones and how they reflect the rich and diverse world of gemology.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with birth months has deep historical roots, with the practice dating back to ancient times. Some sources suggest that the concept originated in biblical times with the twelve stones on Aaron’s breastplate, while others trace it to medieval Europe, where each month was linked to a specific gemstone for protective and symbolic purposes. The modern list of birthstones was formalized in the 20th century, with updates and additions over the years to reflect new discoveries and changing trends in jewelry design.
For August, the birthstone tradition includes three gemstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Sardonyx is considered the “ancient” birthstone for August, with its use dating back over 4,000 years. It was a popular stone among the ancient Greeks and Romans, who believed it enhanced communication skills and brought victory in battle. Sardonyx was also worn by public speakers during the Renaissance for its supposed power of eloquence. Beyond its practical use in amulets and cameos, sardonyx symbolized strength, courage, and protection, making it a powerful talisman in various cultures.
Peridot, on the other hand, became a more prominent August birthstone in the modern era. It is the most widely recognized of the three and is often considered the primary birthstone for August. Known as the “evening emerald” or the “gem of the Sun” by the ancient Egyptians, peridot has a long and storied history. It was once mistaken for emerald, topaz, and ruby due to its striking green color and brilliance. Some of the most notable examples of historical confusion include the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, which was adorned with peridot gems that were originally thought to be emeralds. Peridot’s unique properties and vibrant color have made it a beloved gemstone across cultures and centuries.
The most recent addition to the August birthstone family is spinel, which was officially recognized in 2016. Spinel is a relatively rare gemstone that is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar color range and brilliance. However, it is a distinct mineral with its own unique crystal structure and properties. Spinel has been treasured for centuries, particularly in royal collections, where it was sometimes used as a substitute for more expensive gems. Its vivid red, pink, and blue hues make it a striking and versatile gemstone, and its designation as a birthstone in 2016 reflects the growing appreciation for its beauty and value.
Together, these three gemstones offer a rich and diverse set of choices for those born in August, each with its own unique history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of a gemstone provides insight into its rarity, beauty, and value. The three August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each have distinct formation processes and sources that contribute to their unique characteristics.
Peridot
Peridot is a type of olivine, a mineral that forms deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure. It is often brought to the surface through volcanic activity, making it a natural byproduct of lava eruptions. Peridot can also be found in certain types of meteorites, where it is referred to as “Pele’s Tears,” named after the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele. The presence of iron in its chemical composition gives peridot its characteristic green hue, which can range from a pale yellow-green to a deep olive green.
The most significant sources of peridot include Zambia, Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States, particularly in the state of Arizona, where large deposits of peridot are found in volcanic rock. Other notable sources include Madagascar, Pakistan, and Burma. The availability of peridot in these regions makes it a relatively accessible gemstone, though high-quality stones with intense color and clarity can be rare and valuable.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, a type of microcrystalline quartz that forms in sedimentary and volcanic rocks. It is created when silica-rich water deposits in rock cavities and slowly crystallizes over time. The banded patterns of sardonyx are the result of alternating layers of sard (a reddish or orange chalcedony) and onyx (a white or black chalcedony). These bands can vary in width and intensity, creating a wide range of visual effects.
India is the primary source of sardonyx, producing stones with excellent contrast between the different colored layers. Other notable sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. Sardonyx is often used in cameos, amulets, and seals, where its durability and ability to hold fine details make it an ideal material for carving and engraving.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral species that forms in igneous rocks and is often found in metamorphic environments as well. It is composed of magnesium aluminum oxide and can exhibit a wide range of colors depending on the trace elements present in its structure. The most prized varieties of spinel include red, pink, violet, blue, and green.
Spinel is sourced from several locations around the world, with Myanmar being the most famous for producing vibrant red and hot pink spinel. Sri Lanka is known for its blue, pink, and purple spinel, particularly in the Central Highlands and the Ratnapura District. Vietnam is another major source, especially for deep red and violet spinel from the Luc Yen region. In 2007, pinkish and orangy-red spinel was discovered in Tanzania, further expanding the gemstone’s geographic footprint.
Spinel is a relatively rare gemstone, particularly in its more vivid colors. While it is less expensive than ruby or sapphire, its beauty and brilliance make it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and affordable alternative to these more traditional gems.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of a stone determine its durability, appearance, and suitability for jewelry. Understanding these properties is essential for both gemologists and consumers, as they influence how a gemstone is cut, set, and cared for. The three August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each have distinct characteristics that contribute to their beauty and value.
Peridot
Peridot is a silicate mineral with a hexagonal crystal structure. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, which means it is relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches from harder materials. Its refractive index ranges from 1.650 to 1.690, and it has a strong double refraction, which can give it a slightly "hazy" appearance when viewed under magnification. Peridot is also not resistant to heat, so it should be kept away from high temperatures to avoid damage.
Peridot is known for its vivid green color, which is caused by the presence of iron in its chemical structure. The most valuable peridot stones are those with a deep, rich green color, often referred to as olivine green or apple green. Peridot is typically transparent to translucent, and it is often cut into brilliant cuts or step cuts to enhance its color and brilliance.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a microcrystalline quartz with a trigonal crystal structure. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. Sardonyx is not transparent, with a waxy to vitreous luster, and it is often cut into cabochons, beads, or cameos to showcase its banded patterns.
The color of sardonyx varies depending on the source and the concentration of iron and manganese in the stone. The red and orange bands are due to the presence of iron, while the white and black bands are the result of silica and other impurities. Sardonyx is not heat-resistant, and it can be easily damaged by exposure to high temperatures or harsh chemicals. As a result, it is best cleaned with a soft cloth and warm water, and it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
Spinel is a garnet group mineral with a isometric crystal structure. It has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it one of the hardest of the August birthstones. Spinel has a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.736 and exhibits strong to moderate luster, depending on the cut and quality of the stone. Spinel is heat-resistant and can withstand the high temperatures required for heat treatment, which is often used to enhance its color and clarity.
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, from deep red and pink to violet, blue, and green. The most valuable spinel stones are those with bright, vivid colors and high clarity. Spinel is typically transparent to translucent and is often cut into brilliant cuts, ovals, or emerald cuts to maximize its brilliance and fire.
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Common Colors | Luster | Heat Resistance | Cleavage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | 6.5 - 7 | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | 1.650 - 1.690 | Green | Vitreous | Low | No |
| Sardonyx | 6.5 - 7 | SiO₂ | N/A | Banded red, orange, white, black | Waxy to vitreous | Low | No |
| Spinel | 8 | MgAl₂O₄ | 1.718 - 1.736 | Red, pink, violet, blue, green | Vitreous | High | No |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical properties of gemstones have been a part of human culture for centuries, with many people believing that certain stones can influence mood, health, and spiritual well-being. The three August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each carry their own unique meanings and powers, reflecting the rich and diverse traditions surrounding gemstones.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, abundance, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was known as the “gem of the Sun,” believed to bring warmth and light to those who wore it. The ancient Egyptians also thought that peridot could ward off nightmares and evil spirits, making it a popular stone for protective amulets and healing rituals.
Peridot is also considered a stone of transformation, helping to release negative emotions and promote self-acceptance. It is believed to encourage optimism, courage, and creativity, making it a popular choice for those seeking inspiration or personal growth. In some traditions, peridot is also associated with healing, particularly for the lungs, thorax, and metabolism.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has a long history of symbolic and protective properties, particularly in ancient Greece and Rome. It was believed to enhance communication skills, making it a popular stone among orators, public speakers, and leaders. During the Renaissance, sardonyx was also worn by single women to help attract a life partner, and by couples to strengthen their bonds and relationships.
Sardonyx is also associated with strength, courage, and determination, making it a powerful stone for those facing challenges or uncertainty. It is believed to help build confidence, focus, and perseverance, and to provide protection against negative influences and emotional distress. In some traditions, sardonyx is also used to enhance memory and learning, making it a popular stone for students and professionals.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively new addition to the August birthstone list, but it has a rich history of symbolic and metaphysical significance. In medieval Europe, spinel was often mistaken for ruby, and it was believed to possess similar healing and protective properties. It was used in royal jewelry and amulets, where it was thought to bring good fortune, love, and longevity.
Spinel is associated with passion, energy, and emotional balance, making it a powerful stone for those seeking inner harmony and emotional stability. It is believed to enhance confidence, self-expression, and creativity, and to help release negative emotions such as jealousy, anger, and fear. In some traditions, spinel is also used to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry. Each gemstone has different properties that affect how it should be cleaned and stored, and understanding these properties can help prevent damage and maintain the stone’s brilliance.
Peridot
Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches from harder materials. It is not heat-resistant, so it should be kept away from high temperatures to avoid damage. Peridot is also not resistant to acidic or harsh chemicals, so it should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. A soft brush can be used to gently clean the stone, but ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided as they can cause damage to the stone’s surface.
When storing peridot jewelry, it should be kept in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches from other gemstones. Peridot is also sensitive to abrasive materials, so it should not be cleaned with abrasive polishes or harsh solvents. If the stone appears dull, it can be polished with a soft cloth to restore its luster.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. It is not heat-resistant, and it can be easily damaged by exposure to high temperatures or harsh chemicals. Sardonyx should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and a soft brush can be used to gently clean the stone. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided as they can cause damage to the stone’s surface.
Sardonyx is not transparent, with a waxy to vitreous luster, and it is often cut into cabochons, beads, or cameos to showcase its banded patterns. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. If the stone appears dull, it can be polished with a soft cloth to restore its luster.
Spinel
Spinel has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it one of the hardest of the August birthstones. It is heat-resistant and can withstand the high temperatures required for heat treatment, which is often used to enhance its color and clarity. Spinel can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and a soft brush can be used to gently clean the stone. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used for spinel, but they should be used with caution to avoid damage to the stone’s surface.
Spinel is typically transparent to translucent and is often cut into brilliant cuts, ovals, or emerald cuts to maximize its brilliance and fire. It should be stored in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches from other gemstones. Spinel is also sensitive to abrasive materials, so it should not be cleaned with abrasive polishes or harsh solvents. If the stone appears dull, it can be polished with a soft cloth to restore its luster.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a rich and diverse set of choices for those born in August. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history, geological properties, and symbolic meaning, making them a fascinating subject for gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
Peridot, with its vibrant green color and association with positive energy, is a popular choice for those seeking a stone of transformation and protection. Sardonyx, with its banded patterns and historical use in amulets and cameos, is a powerful talisman for strength, courage, and communication. Spinel, the newest addition to the August birthstone family, is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar color range and brilliance.
Understanding the geological formation, historical significance, and care requirements of these gemstones can help you choose the perfect piece of jewelry that resonates with your personal style and values. Whether you are born in August or simply drawn to the allure of these stones, the August birthstones offer a wealth of beauty, symbolism, and tradition that continues to captivate and inspire.