August is one of the few months in the calendar year that boasts three official birthstones, offering those born in this summer month a unique palette of colors, histories, and meanings. The primary August birthstone is the vibrant green peridot, but the tradition also embraces the fiery reds of spinel and the distinctive banding of sardonyx. This trio provides a diverse selection for jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike, ranging from the bright, uplifting energy of peridot to the ancient, grounding presence of sardonyx. Together, these gems represent a celebration of summer, strength, and personal style.
The existence of multiple options stems from an evolution in birthstone lists over time. While sardonyx holds the title as the traditional August stone, peridot was established as the official stone in the modern list of 1912. Spinel was the most recent addition in 2016, recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) to provide greater variety in color, availability, and affordability. This article will explore the geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and symbolism of these three distinct August birthstones.
Peridot: The Vibrant Green August Gem
Peridot is the primary and most well-known birthstone for August. It is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, prized for its distinctive and refreshing green hue. Unlike many other colored gemstones, peridot’s color is not the result of trace impurities but rather its intrinsic chemical composition, specifically the presence of iron within its crystal structure. This results in a color range that spans from yellow-green to deep olive, though the most valued stones typically display a rich, lime-green shade.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot has a unique geological origin compared to many other gemstones. While it can be found in igneous rocks, a significant portion of the world’s supply is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Some of the finest specimens have even been discovered within meteorites, solidifying its reputation as a gemstone of extraterrestrial origins.
Commercially, the most significant sources of peridot today are located in the United States (specifically Arizona), Pakistan, and China. The gem’s natural brightness and color generally do not require enhancements, making it a favorite among those who appreciate natural gemstones.
Historical Significance and Lore
Peridot boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians held this gem in particularly high regard, calling it the "gem of the sun." It was believed to offer protection against nightmares and evil spirits. Cleopatra was famously fond of peridot, though for many years, her "emeralds" were actually identified as peridot. The stone was also known as the "Evening Emerald" because of its ability to glow in low light. Historically, peridot has been associated with light, abundance, renewal, prosperity, good fortune, and peace.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is relatively hardy, making it suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. Its chemical formula is (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. Its refractive index and specific gravity are characteristic of the olivine mineral group. Because it is not treated, the value of peridot is determined primarily by the intensity of its green color and the clarity of the stone. High-quality peridot with intense green color and few inclusions is considered valuable and sought after.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
In modern metaphysical beliefs, peridot is often associated with the Heart Chakra. It is believed to support healing and joy, helping to release negative patterns and open the heart to love. Its bright, uplifting energy is said to boost mood and confidence, making it a perfect gemstone for individuals born in summer.
Spinel: The Underrated Sparkler
Spinel is the second official August birthstone, added to the list in 2016. For centuries, spinel was often mistaken for other gemstones, most notably ruby and sapphire, due to its impressive range of colors and high durability. It is an aluminum oxide mineral with the chemical formula MgAl2O4, distinguishing it chemically from corundum (ruby/sapphire).
Color Variety
One of spinel's most captivating features is its wide spectrum of colors. While the most sought-after color is a vivid, rich red that rivals the finest ruby, spinel also appears in shades of pink, orange, purple, blue, and even black. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for jewelry designers and those looking for a specific color palette. The "August birthstone color" in spinel is often associated with vitality and energy.
Historical Confusion and Recognition
The history of spinel is marked by cases of mistaken identity. The "Black Prince's Ruby" in the British Imperial State Crown and the "Timur Ruby" are actually massive red spinels. These historical mix-ups have led to spinel being underappreciated as a distinct gemstone for a long time. However, its recent inclusion as an August birthstone has brought renewed attention to its unique beauty and durability.
Symbolism and Energy
Spinel is associated with renewal, inspiration, and vitality. It is considered a high-energy stone that can help restore energy levels and inspire hope during difficult times. Its "sparkling" nature is often linked to a sense of renewed vigor. For those born in August, spinel offers a vibrant choice that stands out in earrings or bracelets.
Sardonyx: The Striking Striped Birthstone
Sardonyx is the traditional birthstone for August, offering an earthy and historic alternative to the bright green peridot and the colorful spinel. It is a variety of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline form of silica, and is composed of layers of sard (a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and onyx (a black and white banded variety of chalcedony).
Appearance and Composition
The defining characteristic of sardonyx is its bold banding. It features alternating layers of reddish-brown or brownish-red (sard) and white or black (onyx). This creates a striking, contrasting pattern within a single stone. The bands are parallel and distinct, giving the gem an architectural, earthy look.
Historical Significance
As the traditional stone, sardonyx has a history that spans millennia. It was highly favored by the ancient Romans, who often used it for signet rings and cameos. The Romans believed that sardonyx could protect the wearer during battles and bring courage. Its use in intaglio and cameo carving dates back to antiquity, prized for the way its distinct bands could highlight the details of the carved image.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx is deeply rooted in meanings of strength, courage, and protection. It is considered a deeply grounding stone, providing stability and support. In metaphysical beliefs, it is often recommended for those seeking to build stable relationships or enhance willpower. Its earthy energy is said to support the wearer in maintaining strength and courage in the face of adversity.
Comparative Overview of August Birthstones
To better understand the distinct characteristics of these three gems, the following table summarizes their key properties and meanings based on the provided sources.
| Birthstone | Primary Color Range | Chemical Composition/Type | Key Symbolism & Energy | Traditional vs. Modern |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Bright lime green to olive green | (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 (Olivine) | Positivity, joy, abundance, protection | Official (1912) |
| Spinel | Vivid red, pink, orange, blue, black | MgAl2O4 (Spinel group) | Renewal, inspiration, vitality, restoration | Modern (2016) |
| Sardonyx | Reddish-brown and white/black bands | SiO2 (Chalcedony - variety) | Strength, courage, protection, stability | Traditional |
Care and Cleaning
Understanding the physical properties of these gemstones is essential for their proper care. While they are all suitable for jewelry, their durability varies.
- Peridot: With a hardness on the Mohs scale of around 6.5 to 7, peridot is moderately durable but can be scratched by harder stones. It is also somewhat prone to chipping if knocked against a hard surface. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as rapid temperature changes can cause fractures.
- Spinel: Spinel is more durable than peridot, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It has no cleavage, making it resistant to breaking. It is generally stable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners (for untreated stones), and steam cleaners.
- Sardonyx: As a variety of chalcedony (quartz), sardonyx has a hardness of about 7 on the Mohs scale, making it quite durable for everyday wear. It is stable with respect to light and heat. Like the others, it can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Choosing the Right August Gemstone
With three distinct options, choosing the right August birthstone often comes down to personal preference, desired color, and the meaning one wishes to attribute to the gem.
- For a bright, uplifting stone: Peridot is the ideal choice. Its fresh green color is synonymous with summer and is believed to boost mood and confidence.
- For versatility and royal history: Spinel offers a wide range of colors, from the ruby-red prized by royalty to a variety of other hues. It is perfect for those who want a high-energy stone associated with renewal.
- For a vintage, protective piece: Sardonyx is the go-to for an ancient, grounding energy. Its bold bands tell a story of history and are believed to offer strength and courage.
The availability of these three stones ensures that anyone born in August can find a gem that not only matches their personality and wardrobe but also resonates with their personal journey.
Conclusion
The August birthstone collection is a testament to the diversity and richness of the mineral world. From the volcanic depths of peridot to the crystalline layers of sardonyx and the often-mistaken brilliance of spinel, each stone offers a unique narrative. Peridot brings the light of the sun and the vibrancy of summer. Spinel offers a spectrum of color and the promise of renewal. Sardonyx provides the grounding force of the earth and the courage of ancient warriors. Together, they provide a comprehensive and meaningful selection for those celebrating an August birthday, ensuring there is a perfect gem to represent their birth month.