August is a unique month in the world of birthstones, celebrated with not one, but three distinct and beautiful gemstones: sardonyx, peridot, and spinel. Each gem carries its own rich history, fascinating geological origins, and symbolic meaning, offering a diverse palette of color and character for those born in the eighth month of the year. This article will delve into the properties, history, and significance of these August birthstones, drawing upon available information to provide a comprehensive overview.
A Historical Perspective on August Birthstones
Traditionally, sardonyx held the sole designation as the August birthstone. This banded form of chalcedony, composed of sard and onyx layers, was highly valued in ancient times for its unique appearance and perceived protective qualities. However, the landscape of birthstone recognition evolved with advancements in gemology and the increasing availability of diverse gemstones.
In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers, now known as Jewelers of America, officially added peridot to the list of August birthstones. This decision broadened the options available to those seeking a gem aligned with their birth month. Further expanding the selection, the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association jointly designated spinel as a third August birthstone in 2016. This addition aimed to highlight the beauty and often-overlooked qualities of spinel, a gem frequently mistaken for ruby. The inclusion of three birthstones allows for a more personalized connection and a wider range of aesthetic choices.
Peridot: The “Gem of the Sun”
Peridot, perhaps the most well-known of the August birthstones, is celebrated for its vibrant green hue. This distinctive color, ranging from lime to olive shades, is unique within the gem world, as peridot consistently exhibits only green variations. Ancient Romans aptly named it “evening emerald” due to its ability to maintain its color even under artificial light.
Peridot is sourced from various locations around the globe, including the United States (Arizona and New Mexico), Burma (Myanmar), Pakistan, and China. Gemologically, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, indicating moderate durability suitable for jewelry. It is valued for its color and sparkle, making it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and eye-catching gemstone. Symbolically, spinel is said to revitalize and rejuvenate the wearer, offering a sense of hope and improving self-esteem.
Spinel: A Ruby Imposter with Unique Appeal
While often confused with ruby, spinel is a distinct gemstone with its own captivating qualities. The addition of spinel to the August birthstone list in 2016 aimed to increase awareness and appreciation for this often-underestimated gem. Spinel exhibits a range of colors, including shades of pink and red, but also appears in other hues.
Sardonyx: The Original August Stone
Sardonyx, the traditional August birthstone, is a banded variety of chalcedony, a mineral composed of silica. Its layers of sard (reddish-brown) and onyx (black) create a distinctive and visually appealing pattern. Historically significant, sardonyx was treasured for its unique banding and symbolic associations.
Gemological Properties at a Glance
The following table summarizes key gemological properties of the three August birthstones, based on available information:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Mohs Hardness | Color(s) | Notable Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | 6.5 - 7 | Lime to Olive Green | U.S. (Arizona, New Mexico), Burma, Pakistan, China |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Data not available in sources | Pink, Red, and other hues | Data not available in sources |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ (Chalcedony) | Data not available in sources | Banded Reddish-Brown and Black | Data not available in sources |
James Avery Artisan Jewelry and August Birthstones
James Avery Artisan Jewelry offers a curated collection of August birthstone jewelry, showcasing the beauty of sardonyx, peridot, and spinel in a variety of styles. The company emphasizes handcrafted designs and attention to detail, providing customers with meaningful pieces to commemorate special moments and celebrate loved ones. James Avery has also recently expanded its reach through partnerships with retailers like Von Maur, bringing its handcrafted jewelry to a wider audience in the Midwest.
Care and Maintenance
While specific care instructions for each August birthstone are not detailed in the provided sources, general guidelines based on their hardness can be inferred. Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, requires careful handling to avoid scratches. Sardonyx and spinel, while their hardness is not specified, should also be protected from abrasive materials and harsh impacts. Avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures is generally recommended for maintaining the beauty and integrity of these gemstones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Spinel is specifically noted for its symbolism of revitalization, said to refresh and rejuvenate the wearer. It is also believed to foster hope and improve self-esteem. While the sources do not elaborate on the metaphysical properties of sardonyx and peridot, their historical use and association with ancient cultures suggest they were likely imbued with symbolic meaning as well.
Conclusion
The August birthstones – sardonyx, peridot, and spinel – represent a rich tapestry of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient origins of sardonyx to the vibrant green of peridot and the often-overlooked beauty of spinel, each gem offers a unique connection to the month of August. The expansion of the birthstone list to include three options reflects a growing appreciation for the diversity and individuality within the world of gemstones, allowing those born in August to choose a gem that truly resonates with their personal style and beliefs.