August’s Trio: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx – A History of Choice

August is unique among the months, boasting not one, but three recognized birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While sardonyx held the position as the sole August birthstone for centuries, peridot was later added, and in 2016, spinel joined the ranks, offering those born in August a diverse selection of gemstones with rich histories and captivating beauty. This expansion reflects a modern trend towards providing gemstone enthusiasts with more personalized choices, acknowledging the significance of historically important gems and catering to individual preferences.

History and Lore

The history of August birthstones is a story of evolving recognition and, at times, mistaken identity. Sardonyx, the original birthstone for August, has a history stretching back over 4,000 years, appearing in ancient artifacts and religious texts. It was featured in the high priest’s breastplate, a precursor to the modern concept of birthstones, and was considered a foundational stone of Jerusalem.

Peridot’s story is intertwined with that of topaz. Ancient sources often used the name “topaz” to refer to what is now known as peridot, particularly stones found on the Red Sea island of Topazios. This historical confusion persisted for centuries, with some scholars believing references to topaz in historical texts actually described peridot. George Frederick Kuntz, in his 1913 publication, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, noted this interchangeable use of the name. Cleopatra herself was rumored to have adorned herself with peridot, believing them to be emeralds.

Spinel’s history is marked by its long-standing misidentification as ruby. For centuries, vibrant red spinels were prized by royalty and gem merchants, but were unknowingly sold as rubies. Some of the most famous “rubies” in historical crown jewels are, in fact, spinels. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that advancements in gemological technology allowed for the accurate distinction between spinel and ruby. The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) officially recognized spinel as an August birthstone in 2016, acknowledging its historical significance and growing popularity.

Geological Formation and Sources

Peridot is a fascinating gem formed under extreme geological conditions. It is found in hardened lava, carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even in meteorites. While peridot from meteorites is typically too small for jewelry use, larger, gem-quality stones are brought to the surface by volcanic activity.

Spinel’s formation is linked to the metamorphic processes within marble and other metamorphic rocks. It often occurs alongside ruby and sapphire, contributing to the historical confusion between the gems.

Sardonyx, a variety of chalcedony, forms in layered sedimentary rocks. Its distinctive banding is created by alternating layers of sard (reddish-brown) and onyx (black).

The sources for these stones vary geographically. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the origins of peridot are linked to volcanic regions and meteorites, spinel to metamorphic rock formations, and sardonyx to sedimentary deposits.

Gemological Properties

Peridot is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg,Fe)2 SiO4. Its color is determined by the amount of iron present within the stone. It is often referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its ability to sparkle under both natural and artificial light, though it possesses distinct characteristics that differentiate it from true emeralds.

Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide with the chemical formula MgAl2O4. It occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, and purple. The sources do not provide details on its refractive index or hardness.

Sardonyx is a banded variety of chalcedony, composed of silica. Its color banding consists of layers of reddish-brown sard and black onyx. The sources do not provide details on its refractive index or hardness.

A comparative table of hardness, based on the Mohs scale, would be beneficial, but the provided sources do not contain this information for spinel or sardonyx.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Throughout history, each of these August birthstones has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Sardonyx, with its ancient roots, was believed to offer strength and courage. Peridot, often called the “sun gem,” is associated with good fortune and protection. It is also traditionally given to celebrate the 16th year of marriage.

The sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with spinel beyond its historical reverence by royalty and its association with vitality and energy due to its vibrant colors.

Care and Cleaning

The sources provide limited information regarding the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, given peridot’s composition and hardness, it should be treated with care to avoid scratches. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for spinel or sardonyx, but general guidelines for gemstone care – such as using warm, soapy water and a soft cloth – would be appropriate.

The Modern Choice

The addition of spinel as an official August birthstone in 2016 reflects a growing trend in the jewelry industry towards offering consumers more choices and recognizing the historical significance of lesser-known gemstones. As David Bonaparte, President and CEO of Jewelers of America, stated, the organization believes in recognizing historically significant gemstones and providing gemstone lovers with options that suit their preferences. This expansion of the birthstone list acknowledges the evolving tastes of consumers and the enduring appeal of these beautiful and historically rich gems.

Conclusion

August’s three birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – represent a fascinating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient origins of sardonyx to the long-held misidentification of spinel as ruby, and the volcanic origins of peridot, each gem offers a unique story. The choice of which August birthstone to embrace is a personal one, reflecting individual preferences and a connection to the rich heritage of these captivating gemstones.