August boasts a trio of captivating birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While peridot is often considered the primary August birthstone, spinel has gained recognition more recently, and sardonyx holds the distinction of being the oldest-known stone associated with this month. Each gem carries its own unique history, geological origins, and symbolic meaning, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in August.
A Trio of Historical Significance
The association of specific gemstones with months of the year dates back to ancient times, though the assignments have evolved. Sardonyx claims the longest history as an August birthstone, with evidence of its use dating back over 4,000 years to the 2nd Dynasty of Egypt. Peridot’s prominence grew over time, becoming the more familiar August birthstone, while spinel was officially added as a birthstone option only in 2016. This progression reflects changing tastes and discoveries within the gemological world.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Stone of Strength
Sardonyx is a captivating combination of two varieties of chalcedony: sard, which contributes bands of brownish-red to dark orange, and onyx, providing contrasting layers of white or black. The name itself reflects this composition, derived from the combination of “sard” and “onyx.” This banded structure made it a favored material for cameos and intaglios for millennia, as the contrasting colors allowed for detailed carvings.
Historically, sardonyx was highly valued for practical purposes. Ancient Romans utilized it for seals and signet rings, appreciating that hot wax would not adhere to its surface. Beyond its practicality, the stone held symbolic weight. The Old Testament references sardonyx as one of the stones in the High Priest’s breastplate, signifying spiritual strength. Roman soldiers wore rings engraved with the image of Mars, believing the stone offered protection in battle. During the Renaissance, sardonyx was favored by orators and public speakers, thought to enhance eloquence, and was believed to aid in attracting a spouse and fostering marital happiness.
Sardonyx is sourced from several locations worldwide, including India, which is a major producer known for stones with good color contrast. Additional sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
Peridot: The “Evening Emerald” and Stone of the Sun
Peridot, the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow variety of the mineral olivine, is often referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its ability to sparkle even under artificial light. Throughout history, peridot has sometimes been mistaken for emerald and topaz, highlighting the challenges of gem identification before modern gemological techniques. The island of Topazios in the Red Sea, historically believed to be a source of topaz, actually yielded significant quantities of peridot.
The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral is adorned with 200 carats of gems once thought to be emeralds, but now identified as peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have included peridot.
Peridot’s unique origin adds to its allure. It is found in hardened lava, carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even in meteorites that have traveled from outer space. While peridot from meteorites is typically too small for jewelry, larger stones are sourced from the Earth’s upper mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
Spinel: A Recently Recognized Gem
Spinel, the newest addition to the August birthstone family, presents itself in a remarkable range of colors, including intense red, vivid pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. For centuries, red spinel was often mistaken for ruby, a misidentification that persisted until more recent gemological advancements. Today, spinel is appreciated for its own distinct beauty and is a popular alternative to ruby.
The name “spinel” originates from the Latin word “spina,” meaning “thorn,” referencing the gem’s crystal shape. Spinel is sourced from various locations, including Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Myanmar is particularly known for producing spinel in arresting shades of hot pink and red. Sri Lanka yields blue, pink, and purple spinel, primarily from the rolling hills of the Central Highlands and river gravels in the Ratnapura District. Northern Vietnam’s Luc Yen region is a source of deep red, purple, pink, vivid blue, violet, and violet-blue spinel. A 2007 discovery in Tanzania revealed pinkish and orangy-red spinel, further expanding the gem’s appeal. Spinel is a traditional gift for a 22nd wedding anniversary.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
Each of the August birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Peridot, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, is primarily composed of olivine, magnesium, and iron, with the amount of iron influencing its color and luster. Spinel, with a Mohs hardness of 8, is a durable gem suitable for various jewelry applications. Sardonyx, being a form of chalcedony, exhibits a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7.
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Mohs Hardness | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 | 6.5-7 | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow |
| Spinel | MgAl2O4 | 8 | Red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, bluish-green |
| Sardonyx | SiO2 | 6.5-7 | Bands of brownish-red to dark orange and white or black |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these August birthstones are imbued with symbolic meaning. Sardonyx represents strength, courage, and protection, while peridot is associated with abundance and positivity. Spinel is believed to revitalize the body and mind. Historically, each stone was attributed with specific powers – sardonyx for eloquence and attracting love, peridot for healing and warding off evil, and spinel for protection and good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of August birthstones requires appropriate care. Spinel, with its hardness of 8, can generally be cleaned using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, though caution is advised if the stone contains fractures. Warm, soapy water is always a safe cleaning option. Spinel is stable when exposed to light and chemicals, but high heat can cause some colors to fade. Sardonyx and peridot are best cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stones.
Conclusion
The August birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – represent a rich tapestry of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient origins of sardonyx to the recently recognized beauty of spinel and the captivating glow of peridot, these gems offer a diverse and compelling selection for those born in the eighth month of the year. Each stone carries a unique story, making them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful connections to the past and symbols of personal significance.