Those born in August are blessed with a unique distinction: they have not one, but three birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. These gemstones, each with their own rich histories, symbolic meanings, and geological origins, reflect the vibrant and multifaceted nature of the month of August. From ancient times to the present day, these stones have been treasured for their beauty, their associations with fortune and protection, and their roles in jewelry and spiritual practices.
This article explores the three August birthstones in depth, drawing on historical accounts, scientific data, and cultural lore to present a comprehensive view of their significance. Whether you are an August baby, a jewelry collector, or simply fascinated by the world of gemstones, this guide will illuminate the enduring allure of peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.
History and Lore of August Birthstones
The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months has ancient roots, with the earliest records tracing back to the Bible. According to the Book of Exodus, the High Priest wore a breastplate adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones became associated with the months of the year, forming the foundation for the modern birthstone tradition.
The association of gemstones with specific months evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures and regions. For example, the medieval European tradition and the more recent American and European variations sometimes differ in their selection of birthstones. In the case of August, the selection of three stones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—reflects the evolving nature of this tradition.
Sardonyx: The Oldest August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of the August birthstones, with a history that stretches back over 4,000 years. Composed of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a banded chalcedony), sardonyx has a distinctive coloration that made it highly valued in antiquity. Ancient Romans used sardonyx for seals and rings, believing it to bring good fortune and protection. Roman soldiers carried sardonyx into battle, convinced that the stone would grant them strength and victory.
In religious and spiritual contexts, sardonyx was considered a sacred stone. It is mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the stones carved into the High Priest’s breastplate. In ancient Egypt and Greece, sardonyx was worn as an amulet and incorporated into various forms of jewelry, including bracelets, earrings, and lockets.
Even today, sardonyx is revered for its symbolic meanings. It is said to promote spirituality, open communication, prosperity, courage, and harmonious relationships in all aspects of life—be it romantic, platonic, or professional.
Peridot: The "Evening Emerald"
Peridot, the second of the August birthstones, is a gem with a long and storied history. Known as the "evening emerald" or the "gem of the Sun" in ancient Egypt, peridot has been admired for its vibrant green hues. The stone owes its color to the presence of iron within its crystal structure, which gives it a range of shades from yellowish-green to deep olive.
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, formed deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity and has also been found in meteorites, earning it the nickname "Pele’s Tears" after the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele. This connection to fire and the Earth’s inner depths adds to the stone’s mystique.
Historically, peridot was often mistaken for other green gemstones, such as topaz and emerald. For example, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral was believed to be adorned with emeralds, but these were, in fact, peridots. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have contained peridot.
Peridot has long been associated with joy, good luck, and the warding off of negative energy. In ancient times, it was believed to bring emotional healing and to help the wearer overcome worries and anxieties. Its vibrant green color also symbolizes growth, renewal, and optimism, making it a fitting representation of the summer season.
Spinel: The Modern August Birthstone
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone lineup, officially recognized in 2016. Unlike peridot and sardonyx, which have been associated with August for centuries, spinel was only recently acknowledged for its significance and beauty.
Spinel is a mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and purple. Its red and pink varieties are often mistaken for ruby, as they share a similar color and brilliance. In fact, many historical "rubies" were actually spinels, including some in the British Crown Jewels.
The modern recognition of spinel as an August birthstone reflects a growing appreciation for rare and alternative gemstones. As consumers increasingly seek out unique and ethically sourced gems, spinel has gained popularity for its vibrant colors, durability, and affordability compared to ruby or sapphire.
Spinel is believed to symbolize passion, strength, and courage. Its bold and fiery hues make it a powerful gemstone, ideal for those who wish to express their inner fire and resilience.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the August birthstones has a distinct geological origin, formed under different conditions and found in various parts of the world.
Peridot: Born of Fire and Meteorites
Peridot is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, where high temperatures and pressure create the perfect conditions for the mineral olivine to crystallize. It is brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions, which carry the molten rock (magma) upward. When the magma cools and solidifies, it forms basalt, a type of igneous rock that can contain peridot crystals.
Peridot is also found in meteorites, particularly in chondrites, which are some of the oldest rocks in the solar system. This extraterrestrial origin adds to the stone’s allure and gives it a unique cosmic connection.
The world’s most significant sources of peridot include:
- Zabargad Island (St. John’s Island), Red Sea – A historical and high-quality source of peridot.
- Arizona, USA – Known for its green volcanic rock deposits.
- Brazil, Myanmar, and China – Additional sources of peridot, though Zabargad remains the most famous.
Sardonyx: A Banded Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, a form of microcrystalline quartz. It is composed of two distinct layers: the sard layer, which is reddish or brownish in color, and the onyx layer, which is white or black. The banding is what gives the stone its unique and striking appearance.
Sardonyx forms when silica-rich water deposits gradually crystallize into quartz over long periods of time. This process occurs in cavities within volcanic rock, where the mineral deposits build up in alternating layers.
Historical sources of sardonyx include:
- India – A major source of sardonyx since ancient times.
- Brazil and the United States – Modern sources of the stone, particularly in Arizona and Nevada.
- Egypt and the Mediterranean – Ancient sources used by the Greeks and Romans.
Spinel: A Versatile and Durable Gem
Spinel forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, typically in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is often found in marble and basalt, and it can also occur in limestone deposits.
Spinel is known for its wide range of colors, which is due to the presence of different trace elements. For example:
- Iron produces green and brown spinel.
- Chromium and vanadium create red and pink spinel.
- Cobalt results in blue spinel.
Major sources of spinel include:
- Burma (Myanmar) – Famous for its red spinel.
- Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania – Additional sources of high-quality spinel.
- Russia – Known for its blue cobalt spinel, which was historically used in the Russian Crown Jewels.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the scientific characteristics of a gemstone is essential for identifying, valuing, and caring for it. Below is a detailed breakdown of the gemological properties of the three August birthstones.
Peridot
- Chemical Composition: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ (olivine)
- Color: Yellowish-green to deep green
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6.5–7
- Refractive Index: 1.65–1.70
- Specific Gravity: 3.3–3.5
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy)
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Common Cuts: Round, oval, emerald, cushion
Peridot is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, so it requires careful handling to avoid scratches or damage. It is also not resistant to heat, so it should not be exposed to high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
Sardonyx
- Chemical Composition: SiO₂ (silicon dioxide)
- Color: Reddish-brown sard and white or black onyx
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6.5–7
- Refractive Index: 1.48–1.53
- Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque
- Common Cuts: Cabochon, oval, square
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony, a type of quartz. It is relatively durable but not as hard as diamonds or corundum. It is best suited for jewelry that is not subjected to heavy wear, such as pendants and earrings.
Spinel
- Chemical Composition: MgAl₂O₄
- Color: Red, pink, orange, blue, purple, green
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Refractive Index: 1.718
- Specific Gravity: 3.6–4.0
- Crystal System: Cubic
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Common Cuts: Round, oval, cushion, princess
Spinel is a very durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for all types of jewelry. It is also not prone to cleavage, so it is less likely to chip or break under normal wear.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Gemstones have long been associated with symbolism and spiritual properties, and the August birthstones are no exception. Each of these stones carries a unique set of meanings and is believed to offer various metaphysical benefits.
Peridot: The Stone of Joy and Renewal
Peridot is often referred to as the "gem of the Sun", and it is believed to bring positive energy, happiness, and optimism to the wearer. In ancient times, it was used to ward off nightmares and negative thoughts, making it a stone of protection and emotional healing.
Peridot is also associated with growth, renewal, and fertility, making it a popular choice for those undergoing personal transformation or seeking to renew their lives. Its green color symbolizes nature, balance, and harmony, reinforcing its connection to inner peace and spiritual awakening.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Courage and Communication
Sardonyx is a stone of courage, determination, and clarity. It is believed to enhance communication, self-expression, and confidence, making it an excellent stone for those in leadership roles or those who wish to speak their truth.
In spiritual traditions, sardonyx is associated with prosperity, good fortune, and healthy relationships. It is also said to protect the wearer from negative influences and to promote stability and security in both personal and professional life.
Spinel: The Stone of Passion and Strength
Spinel is a stone of passion, strength, and resilience. Its bold and vibrant colors are believed to ignite the spirit, boost energy, and enhance emotional well-being. Red and pink spinel, in particular, are associated with love, desire, and romantic energy.
Spinel is also believed to boost confidence, encourage boldness, and support the wearer in overcoming challenges. It is a powerful stone for those who wish to step out of their comfort zone, pursue their goals, and embrace their true selves.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and luster of gemstones. The following guidelines provide practical advice for caring for peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.
Peridot
- Hardness: 6.5–7 (relatively soft)
- Cleavage: No cleavage, but may be brittle
- Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water. Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may damage the stone.
- Storage: Store peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Peridot should be avoided in high-heat environments, as it is sensitive to heat. It is best suited for everyday wear, but it should be handled with care to avoid chips or cracks.
Sardonyx
- Hardness: 6.5–7
- Cleavage: No cleavage, but may be brittle
- Cleaning: Clean with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: Store sardonyx in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratching.
Sardonyx is relatively durable, but it is not suitable for heavy wear in rings or bracelets. It is best suited for pendants, earrings, and brooches.
Spinel
- Hardness: 8 (very durable)
- Cleavage: No cleavage
- Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water. Spinel is safe to clean with steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store spinel with other hard gemstones.
Spinel is one of the most durable August birthstones and is suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—represent the rich and diverse heritage of gemstone traditions. Each stone has its own unique geological origin, historical significance, and symbolic meaning, making them a perfect reflection of the energy, beauty, and spirit of August.
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant green of peridot, the bold colors of spinel, or the banded elegance of sardonyx, these gemstones offer a deep connection to the past and a celebration of the present. As you explore the world of birthstones, you may find that one of these stones resonates with you on a personal level, offering not just aesthetic beauty, but also meaning, protection, and inspiration.