August is unique in the gemological calendar, offering not one, but three distinct official birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This trio represents a fascinating spectrum of geological formation, historical lore, and aesthetic variety. While peridot is a gem born of fire and extraterrestrial origins, spinel spent centuries in the shadow of the ruby before being recognized for its own merits. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, connects the modern wearer to over four millennia of human history. Together, they encapsulate the vibrant energy of summer, offering choices ranging from the bright green of a sun-drenched field to the earthy strength of ancient stone.
The modern adoption of three stones for August reflects a desire to honor both historical tradition and contemporary taste. Peridot, with its chemical composition of olivine, is perhaps the most famous of the three, known for its formation under extreme conditions deep within the Earth’s mantle. Spinel, a cubic crystal system mineral, offers a rainbow of colors, most notably a vibrant red that fooled royalty for centuries. Finally, sardonyx, a cryptocrystalline quartz variety, serves as a testament to durability and symbolism, having been used for seals and talismans since the height of the Roman Empire. This article explores the geological origins, gemological properties, and the rich tapestry of history and lore surrounding these three remarkable gems.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot stands out for its distinctive olive-green hue, ranging from yellowish-green to greenish yellow. It is the gem variety of the mineral olivine. What makes peridot geologically unique among gemstones is its formation environment. Unlike many gems that crystallize in the crust, peridot is formed deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface by volcanic activity, often found in the hardened lava that carries it upward. Perhaps even more exotic is its extraterrestrial occurrence; peridot has been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, earning it the nickname the "space gem." In a significant scientific discovery, it has also been identified on the Moon, further cementing its reputation as a gem of cosmic origin.
The history of peridot is as colorful as the gem itself. Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other gems, specifically topaz and emerald. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a source that gave rise to the name "topaz," actually produced peridot. This historical misidentification extends to some of the most famous gem collections in history. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral is decorated with 200 carats of gems that were long believed to be emeralds but are, in fact, peridot. Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been comprised of peridot.
The etymology of the name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning gem. In ancient Egypt, peridot was highly revered. The Egyptians believed the stone was brought to Earth from an "exploding sun" and called it the "gem of the sun." It was mined at night, as the Egyptians believed the stone absorbed the sun’s rays and released them in the darkness, making it visible to the miners. The Romans also valued the stone, calling it the "evening gem" because they believed the olive-green stone glowed in the dark.
In biblical times, this August birthstone was referred to as chrysolite, a term coming from the Greek chrysolithos, meaning "golden stone." There is evidence suggesting peridot was used on the breastplate worn by Moses’ brother, Aaron. Ancient superstitions held that wearing the gem would protect one from evil spirits and the "terrors of the night." To maximize this protection, it was recommended to string the stone on donkey hair and tie it around the left arm. Furthermore, setting the stone in gold was believed to increase its powers, a practice used by Egyptian priests who encrusted their goblets with peridot to connect with their gods. In Hawaiian culture, peridot was believed to be the tears of Pele, the Goddess of Volcanoes and Elements.
Spinel: The Great Impostor
For centuries, spinel was the underappreciated "step-sister" of the ruby. Its name may originate from the Latin spina, meaning "thorn," referencing the pointed shape of its natural crystals. Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide with a cubic crystal system. It was not until 2016 that spinel officially earned its place alongside peridot and sardonyx as one of the official August birthstones. This recognition was long overdue, as spinel possesses its own distinct beauty and history.
The primary reason for spinel's historical obscurity was its frequent confusion with ruby. Red spinel, specifically, was mistaken for the "king of gems" for centuries. The most famous example is the "Black Prince's Ruby" in the British Imperial State Crown, which is actually a massive red spinel. Despite this long history of mistaken identity, spinel is now prized as a vibrant and durable alternative to ruby, offering similar visual appeal often at a more accessible price point.
Spinel offers a remarkable range of colors, making it a versatile choice for jewelry buyers. The gem can be found in red, pink, purple, blue, orange, and black. The finest reds and pinks are highly valued, while the vivid blues found in Vietnam are also sought after. Geographically, spinel is mined in several locations around the world. Key sources include Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam has produced this August birthstone since the 1980s, yielding deep red, purple, pink, violet, and violet-blue stones. More recently, the 2007 discovery in Tanzania of pinkish and orangy-red spinel captivated gem collectors, with mines there also producing purple and blue hues.
From a gemological perspective, spinel is a durable gem. It registers 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for rings and other jewelry that sees daily wear. It is stable when exposed to light and most chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade. Regarding care, warm soapy water is always a safe cleaning method. While ultrasonic and steam cleaners can typically be used, caution is advised if the stone has fractures, as these could pose a problem during cleaning.
Sardonyx: The Warrior's Gem
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, boasting a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is one of the oldest known gems associated with the month. Sardonyx is not a single mineral but a variety of cryptocrystalline quartz. Specifically, it is a combination of two types of chalcedony: sard and onyx. Its distinctive appearance consists of bands of brownish-red to dark orange sard alternating with layers of white or black onyx. This banded structure gives it a unique, earthy aesthetic.
The name "sardonyx" is a portmanteau of "sard" (referring to the reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and "onyx" (a layered form of quartz). Historically, sardonyx was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings. The Romans discovered that hot wax would not stick to the surface of sardonyx, making it the perfect material for creating impressions of family crests and official documents. This practical application helped cement its place in Roman society.
Beyond its utility, sardonyx was deeply embedded in the Roman military culture. Roman soldiers would wear sardonyx engraved with images of heroes or gods to boost their courage in battle. This practice highlights the stone's reputation as a talisman of strength and protection. The lore surrounding sardonyx extends back to ancient Egypt, where it was also used in protective amulets and powerful talismans.
Metaphysical beliefs associated with sardonyx emphasize stability and lasting happiness. It was believed to attract luck in love and marriage, as well as provide a grounding influence. Its energy is often described as bold and stabilizing. Today, sardonyx is valued for its vintage style and ancient roots. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a gem with a meaningful story and an earthy, classic look.
Gemological Properties Comparison
To better understand the physical differences and similarities between these three August birthstones, the following table outlines their key gemological properties as derived from the provided sources.
| Property | Peridot | Spinel | Sardonyx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Olivine | Spinel | Chalcedony (Quartz) |
| Chemical Composition | (Mg, Fe)2SiO4 | MgAl2O4 | SiO2 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Cubic | Trigonal (Microcrystalline) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 | 7.5–8 | 6.5–7 |
| Color Range | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | Red, pink, purple, blue, orange, black | Banded red, brown, white, orange |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Transparent to translucent | Opaque to translucent |
Metaphysical Beliefs and Modern Significance
The three August birthstones are rich in symbolism and are believed to offer various benefits to the wearer, particularly when worn close to the skin. This practice is said to amplify the stones' energetic benefits, offering protection, emotional balance, and confidence.
Peridot is viewed as a stone of positivity and joy. Its bright green color is associated with the Heart Chakra, making it a popular choice for those seeking to support emotional healing and open their heart to love. It is believed to boost mood and confidence, acting as a pure expression of summer energy.
Spinel is considered a high-energy stone associated with renewal, inspiration, and vitality. It is often chosen by individuals looking to restore their energy levels or find hope during difficult times. Its variety of colors allows for personal alignment with specific intentions, from the passion of red to the calm of blue.
Sardonyx offers a completely different energetic profile, focusing on grounding and protection. It is the stone of choice for those seeking strength, courage, and stability in relationships. Its ancient heritage as a talisman for soldiers and a seal for important documents translates into a modern belief that it provides a strong, supportive foundation for the wearer.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of these gemstones requires knowledge of their physical properties, particularly their hardness and stability.
Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, is moderately durable but can be scratched by harder gems. It is generally safe to clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes, which could damage the stone.
Spinel is the hardest of the three, rating 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it very durable. It is stable under light and can be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, provided the stone is free of significant fractures. Warm soapy water is always a safe alternative. However, high heat can cause some spinel colors to fade, so exposure to extreme temperatures should be avoided.
Sardonyx, like peridot, has a hardness of 6.5 to 7. As a variety of quartz, it is relatively stable but can be damaged by hard blows. Cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended. As with spinel, ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but caution is advised for stones with fractures.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—provide a diverse palette for gem enthusiasts and jewelry buyers. Peridot captivates with its cosmic origins and sunny green glow, carrying a legacy as the "gem of the sun." Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, now shines on its own merits, offering vibrant colors and exceptional durability. Sardonyx serves as a tangible link to the ancient world, a stone of strength, protection, and historical significance. Whether one is drawn to the extraterrestrial allure of peridot, the versatile brilliance of spinel, or the grounded heritage of sardonyx, those born in August have a wealth of choice, each stone offering a unique combination of beauty, science, and lore.