August is uniquely associated with three distinct gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. These stones, each with its own rich history, geological origins, and cultural significance, have long been cherished for their beauty and symbolic meaning. While peridot is the most widely recognized August birthstone today, spinel and sardonyx also hold historical and cultural relevance, offering collectors and enthusiasts a broader selection of gems to celebrate the eighth month of the year.
This article delves into the fascinating world of August’s birthstones, focusing particularly on the gemstone associated with those born on August 31st—carnelian, which, while not a traditional August birthstone, is often linked to the month through zodiac correlations. Drawing from authoritative gemological sources and historical accounts, we explore the geological properties, historical uses, cultural symbolism, and care requirements of these stones.
A Historical Perspective on August’s Birthstones
The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with early traditions often attributing protective or healing powers to specific gems. In ancient times, gemstones were thought to influence health, mood, and even destiny, and many cultures developed their own systems for assigning stones to months and zodiac signs. The modern list of birthstones, as recognized today, was officially standardized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America), though the practice of associating gems with months predates this by centuries.
For August, the tradition includes three distinct gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these stones has a unique story and set of attributes that have contributed to their enduring appeal.
The Ancient Roots of Sardonyx
Sardonyx is considered the original August birthstone, with a history stretching back more than 4,000 years. This banded chalcedony, a type of quartz, was highly valued in antiquity for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Sardonyx is often cut in cabochon form for rings, bracelets, necklaces, or earrings, and intricate designs such as cameos or intaglio are also common.
The stone’s historical significance is reflected in its use across various ancient civilizations. In medieval Europe, sardonyx was believed to promote self-control, willpower, and integrity. It was also associated with courage and the ability to overcome obstacles. The Polish, in particular, used sardonyx to honor the month of August, recognizing its role in personal development and spiritual growth.
Sardonyx’s composition includes alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a black or white chalcedony), giving it a distinctive and elegant appearance. Its name is derived from the Greek words "sardes" (meaning "reddish") and "onyx," a term for banded stone. The stone was often carved into amulets and seals, and its durability made it ideal for intricate engravings.
The Rise of Peridot as a Modern August Birthstone
Peridot, the most widely recognized August birthstone today, is a gem variety of the mineral olivine. Known for its vibrant yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hues, peridot has been prized since antiquity for its beauty and perceived mystical properties. The gem is formed under extreme geological conditions, often found in volcanic lava flows and even in meteorites that have fallen to Earth.
Peridot’s ancient origins are deeply rooted in Egyptian, Roman, and biblical traditions. The Egyptians referred to peridot as the “gem of the Sun” and believed it was brought to Earth from an “exploding sun.” They mined the stone at night, believing it absorbed the sun’s rays and released them during the night. The Red Sea island of Topazios (now known as Zabargad) was an important source of peridot in antiquity. The island earned ominous names such as “Island of Death” due to the harsh conditions of mining.
The Romans also revered peridot, calling it the “evening gem” because of its supposed ability to glow in the dark. In medieval Europe, peridot was believed to protect against evil spirits and the “terrors of the night.” Priests and clergy often used peridot in their jewelry and ceremonial objects. Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been peridot, as the gem was frequently mistaken for emerald and topaz in the past.
Today, peridot is a popular choice for jewelry, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for everyday wear. Its light green color is derived from the presence of iron in its chemical composition. The gem is found in a range of locations worldwide, including China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. One particularly notable location is Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the presence of the gemstone.
The Rediscovery and Appreciation of Spinel
Spinel, the third gemstone associated with August, has gained popularity in recent years, particularly as an alternative to ruby. This gem was historically mistaken for ruby due to its similar red coloration, but it is a distinct mineral with its own unique properties. Spinel is composed of magnesium aluminum silicate, with its coloration influenced by trace elements such as chromium or iron.
The misidentification of spinel as ruby persisted for centuries, with many royal collections containing spinel instead of true ruby. For example, the “Black Prince’s Ruby,” which is set in the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom, is actually a large red spinel. This misunderstanding contributed to spinel being undervalued for much of its history.
However, in the modern era, spinel has been rediscovered and appreciated for its vibrant colors and brilliance. It is available in a wide range of hues, including red, pink, blue, green, and even colorless. Spinel is relatively hard, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry styles. Its affordability compared to ruby and its dazzling appearance have made it a popular choice for collectors and designers.
Spinel is found in various locations around the world, including Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Vietnam. The gem’s renewed popularity has led to increased interest in its geological properties and historical significance, making it a valuable addition to the August birthstone tradition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological processes that create gemstones is essential to appreciating their rarity and beauty. Each of August’s birthstones is formed through unique conditions that determine their color, hardness, and other properties.
Peridot’s Cosmic Origins
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that can be found in meteorites and is often referred to as the “space gem.” It is formed in the Earth’s mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions, and it is carried to the surface through volcanic activity. This process results in the gem’s characteristic green color, which is caused by the presence of iron.
Peridot is also found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, making it one of the few gems with an extraterrestrial origin. Some of the finest specimens of peridot come from the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, where mining has taken place for centuries. Other notable sources include Myanmar, China, and the United States, where peridot is found in volcanic rock formations.
The Geological Makeup of Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It forms in sedimentary rock through the slow deposition of silica-rich water. The banded pattern of sardonyx is the result of alternating layers of sard and onyx, with sard being the reddish-brown chalcedony and onyx being the white or black chalcedony.
Sardonyx is relatively abundant and is found in several parts of the world, including Brazil, India, and the United States. Its durability and ease of carving make it a popular choice for cameos and intaglios. The gem has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewelry, though it requires careful handling to avoid damage.
The Formation and Sources of Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, often in association with corundum (the mineral that includes ruby and sapphire). It is found in a variety of colors, with the most prized specimens being red and blue. Spinel is composed of magnesium aluminum silicate, with its coloration influenced by trace elements such as chromium or iron.
The gem is found in several parts of the world, including Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Vietnam. Spinel’s hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale makes it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications, and its brilliance and clarity make it a desirable gemstone for collectors and designers.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect the gemstone’s perceived power to influence health, mood, and spiritual well-being.
Peridot: The Stone of Light and Protection
Peridot has long been associated with light and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to be a gift from the sun and was used in religious ceremonies and amulets. The gem was also believed to protect against nightmares and evil spirits, and it was often worn as a talisman for safety.
In medieval Europe, peridot was believed to promote healing and was used in medicinal remedies. It was also associated with love and was given as a gift to express affection. Today, peridot is believed to promote self-confidence and emotional healing, making it a popular choice for those seeking balance and clarity.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Strength and Integrity
Sardonyx is associated with strength, willpower, and integrity. In ancient times, it was believed to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The gem was also used in amulets and seals to protect against harm and to promote success.
In modern metaphysical practices, sardonyx is believed to enhance focus and determination, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to improve their discipline and perseverance. It is also associated with courage and is often used in jewelry to promote confidence and resilience.
Spinel: A Stone of Passion and Renewal
Spinel is often associated with passion, energy, and renewal. In ancient times, it was believed to bring vitality and strength to the wearer. The gem was also used in love charms and was believed to promote romantic relationships and emotional connection.
In modern metaphysical practices, spinel is believed to open all the chakras and inspire the movement of Kundalini energy. It is also associated with rejuvenation and is often used in meditation and healing practices. The gem’s vibrant colors make it a powerful symbol of transformation and personal growth.
Care and Cleaning of August Birthstones
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry. Each of August’s birthstones has specific care requirements based on its hardness, chemical composition, and sensitivity to environmental factors.
Peridot Care
Peridot is relatively soft, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, and it is sensitive to heat and pressure. To avoid damage, peridot jewelry should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. The gem should also be protected from extreme temperatures and sudden changes in temperature.
When cleaning peridot, it is best to use mild soap and warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can cause fractures or damage to the gem. Peridot should also be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Sardonyx Care
Sardonyx is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it should be protected from scratches by storing it separately from harder gemstones. Sardonyx is also sensitive to heat, so it should be kept away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
Cleaning sardonyx is relatively straightforward. A soft cloth and mild soap and water solution can be used to remove dirt and debris. The gem should be dried thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots.
Spinel Care
Spinel is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable for everyday wear. However, it should be protected from scratches by storing it separately from harder gemstones. Spinel is also sensitive to heat and should be kept away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
Cleaning spinel can be done using mild soap and warm water or a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can also be used, but care should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure. Spinel should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials to prevent damage.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. Peridot, with its cosmic origins and vibrant green hues, has been cherished for thousands of years for its protective and healing properties. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, has long been associated with strength and integrity, making it a valuable tool for personal growth and spiritual development. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, has gained renewed appreciation for its brilliance and affordability, making it a popular choice for collectors and designers.
Whether worn as jewelry or used in metaphysical practices, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire. Their rich histories and diverse properties make them a fitting tribute to those born in August, offering a meaningful connection to the past while celebrating the beauty of the present.