August boasts not one, but three recognized birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. These gemstones, each with a unique history and character, represent the culmination of summer’s beauty, mirroring the season’s vibrant colors and warmth. From ancient origins steeped in myth and lore to modern appreciation for their distinct qualities, these stones hold a special place in jewelry and cultural traditions. This article will explore the geological origins, historical significance, and gemological properties of each of these August birthstones.
History and Lore
The history of August birthstones is a complex one, marked by misidentification and evolving traditions. Sardonyx holds the distinction of being the oldest August birthstone, with a history stretching back over 4,000 years. Ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, prized sardonyx for its beauty and perceived protective qualities. It was believed to be a powerful healing stone, a symbol of love and friendship, and a safeguard against evil spirits, embodying feelings of comfort, joy, and courage.
Peridot’s story is intertwined with that of topaz. For centuries, the gem now known as peridot was often mistaken for topaz, particularly the yellowish-green varieties. The island of Topazios in the Red Sea, now called Zabargad, was believed to be the source of topaz, but in reality, yielded peridot crystals. Historical texts referencing topaz in connection with this island likely described peridot instead. Some scholars suggest that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually consisted largely of peridot. Ancient Egyptians referred to peridot as “the gem of the sun,” believing it glowed at night.
Spinel is the newest addition to the list of August birthstones, officially recognized in 2016 by the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association. While historically often confused with ruby due to its similar color, spinel has gained recognition as a gemstone in its own right, appreciated for its brilliance and range of colors.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of these birthstones originates through distinct geological processes and is found in specific locations around the world. Peridot, a variety of the mineral olivine, is formed under extreme conditions. It can be found in hardened lava, carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even in meteorites. Historically, peridot was mined in the Red Sea hills, particularly on the island of Zabargad, with crystals transported through Cairo to Europe and America.
Sardonyx, a variety of onyx, is typically found in India and Brazil, with additional sources in parts of Africa, Europe, and Russia. Its banded appearance, featuring layers of white, gray, or black against shades of brown, contributes to its unique aesthetic.
While spinel occurs in various locations globally, specific sources are not detailed in the provided materials. However, the text notes that spinel is available in a variety of colors, including red, pink, blue, white, and black.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized as a yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem. It is often confused with emerald and topaz due to its similar coloration.
Sardonyx derives its name from the Greek words “sarda,” meaning reddish-brown, and “onux,” meaning fingernail, referencing its resemblance to human fingernails. It displays shades of brown with bands of white, gray, or black, with lighter-colored varieties containing white and dark brown bands being particularly popular.
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties such as chemical formulas, refractive indices, or specific gravity for any of the three stones. However, it is noted that spinel is harder than peridot, scoring an 8 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while peridot’s hardness is not explicitly stated.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these August birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Sardonyx was believed to symbolize feelings of comfort, joy, happiness, creativity, balance, courage, and generosity. Ancient Egyptians associated peridot with the sun, believing it possessed a radiant glow. In the Middle Ages, peridot was thought to represent fertility and was worn by women during childbirth. It was also believed to promote abundant milk production in cows and accelerate wound healing.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care and cleaning instructions for these gemstones. However, given that spinel is harder than peridot, it can be inferred that peridot may require more careful handling to avoid scratches or damage. General gemstone care practices, such as cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, would likely be suitable for all three stones.
Modern Significance and Traditions
Today, peridot, spinel, and sardonyx remain popular choices for jewelry and gifts, particularly for those born in August. Peridot is a traditional gift for 16th wedding anniversaries. The recent addition of spinel to the list of August birthstones has broadened the options available to those seeking a meaningful and beautiful gemstone. The availability of peridot from new discoveries in the American Southwest has also increased its accessibility.
Conclusion
Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx represent a rich tapestry of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient civilizations that revered sardonyx to the modern appreciation for spinel’s brilliance and peridot’s vibrant green hue, these August birthstones continue to captivate and inspire. Their unique origins, combined with their enduring beauty, make them cherished gemstones for generations to come.