For centuries, the vibrant hues of spinel have been admired, often mistaken for other, more well-known gemstones. However, in 2016, spinel officially joined peridot as a recognized birthstone for the month of August, marking the third addition to the official birthstone list since 1952. This recognition highlights a growing appreciation for spinel’s unique qualities and rich history. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of this captivating gemstone.
History and Lore
The story of birthstones is deeply rooted in historical and religious traditions. The association of gemstones with specific months can be traced back to the biblical breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate was adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. While the exact identification of these stones is debated due to the imprecise mineralogical terminology of the time, this practice laid the foundation for the later association of gemstones with the twelve months of the year.
Over time, various cultures developed their own interpretations and lists of birthstones. The standardization of these lists began in 1912 with the National Association of Jewelers, which sought to create a definitive American birthstone chart. This list was further modified in 1952 and again in 2002 with the addition of tanzanite. The most recent addition, spinel for August in 2016, reflects a continued evolution in the understanding and appreciation of gemstones.
Historically, spinel was often confused with ruby, particularly in the context of famous historical gems. Its vibrant red hues led to its inclusion in royal jewelry and collections for centuries, often without being correctly identified as a distinct mineral species. This misidentification underscores the gem’s inherent beauty and value, even before its individual recognition.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in spinel formation, they do indicate that spinel is found in various regions around the world. The sources mention that garnet is found in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Brazil, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. While this refers to garnet, it suggests a broad geographical distribution of gem-bearing geological formations.
Gemological Properties
The sources do not provide detailed gemological properties of spinel, such as its chemical composition, refractive index, or specific gravity. However, they do emphasize its captivating colors. Spinel is available in a wide range of hues, including red, blue, green, yellow, and black. The vibrant red color, historically mistaken for ruby, is particularly prized.
A table summarizing the birthstones and their corresponding months, as provided in the sources, is as follows:
| Month | Modern Birthstone | Traditional Birthstone |
|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
| April | Diamond | Diamond |
| May | Emerald | Emerald |
| June | Alexandrite | Pearl |
| July | Ruby | Ruby |
| August | Peridot, Spinel | Sardonyx |
| September | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| October | Tourmaline | Opal |
| November | Topaz, Citrine | Topaz |
| December | Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite | Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli |
This table illustrates the evolution of birthstone lists and the addition of spinel as a modern option for August.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources highlight the symbolic meanings associated with other birthstones, such as garnet, which represents fertility and rebirth. Garnet is also believed to open doors to new opportunities and wisdom, and in Eastern traditions, to ward off negative emotions. While the sources do not explicitly detail the symbolism of spinel, the general association of gemstones with positive attributes suggests that spinel likely carries similar metaphysical beliefs. The addition of spinel as a birthstone option provides individuals born in August with a wider range of choices to find a gem that resonates with their personality and beliefs.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for spinel. However, given the general durability of gemstones, it is likely that spinel can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. As with any gemstone, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Conclusion
The addition of spinel to the list of August birthstones represents a significant moment in the history of gemological tradition. While long admired for its beauty, spinel’s official recognition as a birthstone allows a wider audience to appreciate its unique qualities and historical significance. From its ancient origins in religious artifacts to its modern-day appeal in jewelry, spinel continues to captivate and inspire. The evolving birthstone list reflects a growing understanding and appreciation for the diverse and enchanting world of gemstones, offering individuals a personal connection to the beauty and symbolism of the natural world.