The world of gemstones is rich with history, lore, and scientific fascination. Certain stones have held particular significance across cultures for millennia, and their association with specific months – as birthstones – adds another layer of meaning. This article explores the origins, properties, and cultural importance of ruby and peridot, two gemstones with notable connections to ancient India, as detailed in available sources. While the information is limited, this article will provide a comprehensive overview based solely on the provided materials.
History and Lore
The concept of associating gemstones with specific months has ancient roots, tracing back to biblical times and the breastplate of Aaron, adorned with twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. However, the formalized birthstone charts as we know them today began to take shape in the 18th century with Polish gem traders, who advocated wearing a specific stone for each month of the year. The modern birthstone chart was officially adopted in 1912 by the National Association of Jewellers to standardize these interpretations.
Ruby, alongside onyx, is identified as the birthstone for July. Its history is particularly intertwined with India, where it was highly prized among royalty and considered a symbol of good health. Beliefs surrounding rubies extended beyond mere aesthetics; they were thought to ward off evil spirits. Interestingly, rubies were not solely valued for their beauty but also for their practical applications, even being fashioned into bullets for blowguns. A rather unusual belief existed that grinding a ruby and consuming it could cure indigestion.
Peridot, a pale green gemstone sometimes called the “evening emerald,” holds the distinction of being the birthstone for August. Its history stretches back even further, with mining operations dating as far back as 1500 BC. Ancient Egyptians utilized peridot to protect against evil spirits and believed that mounting it in gold would safeguard against bad dreams. While Egypt was once a source for peridot, mining operations have since shifted to countries like the United States, Africa, the Middle East, and South America.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources offer limited detail regarding the geological formation of these gemstones. However, they do indicate that rubies are mined in India, the United States, and parts of the Middle East. Peridot is currently sourced from the United States, Africa, the Middle East, and South America, though historically, Egypt was a significant source.
It is noted that peridot is unique in its consistent color, always appearing as lime green, sometimes with a yellow tint. The largest peridot gemstone discovered weighed 310 carats and is now housed in the Smithsonian Institution. Sardonyx, also associated with August, is described as a chalcedony gemstone composed of bands of red-brown sard and white onyx, found in India, Brazil, and the United States.
Gemological Properties
The sources provide limited gemological data. Ruby is described as mostly red, with some exhibiting a purple tint, and the most valuable rubies are those with the deepest, purest red color. Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale, indicating moderate durability. Peridot, however, does not have alternate colors; it is consistently lime green, sometimes with a yellow tint.
The sources do not provide information on chemical composition, refractive index, clarity, or carat weight for either ruby or peridot.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both ruby and peridot are imbued with symbolic meaning. Rubies, historically, represented good health and were believed to possess protective qualities against evil spirits. Peridot, in ancient Egypt, was used to ward off evil and protect against nightmares when mounted in gold. Sardonyx was believed to bring courage, strength, and protection to the wearer, and was used for wax seals and as a talisman against negative energy.
The sources indicate that rubies were symbols of royalty and were worn by people of high status. Peridot is described as an emotional stone, potentially helping to strengthen emotions and thoughts, and providing relief when needed. Topaz, the November birthstone, symbolizes strength, courage, protection, confidence, success, and luck. Opal, the October birthstone, symbolizes hope, creativity, imaginative healing, and emotional wellbeing.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific guidance on the care and cleaning of rubies or peridot. However, given sardonyx’s Mohs hardness of 6.5, it can be inferred that these gemstones require careful handling to avoid scratches. General gemstone care practices, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, would likely be appropriate.
Conclusion
Ruby and peridot, with their rich histories and symbolic meanings, represent more than just beautiful gemstones. Their connections to ancient India and Egypt, along with beliefs surrounding their protective and healing properties, demonstrate the enduring human fascination with these natural treasures. While the provided sources offer a limited glimpse into their geological properties and detailed characteristics, they highlight the cultural significance of these birthstones and their continued relevance in modern jewelry and symbolism. The association of these stones with specific months adds a personal touch, allowing individuals to connect with their birthstone’s unique history and meaning.