The month of August is uniquely represented by three distinct and historically significant gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While peridot is widely recognized as the modern primary birthstone, the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx offers a rich tapestry of color, history, and symbolism for those born in this month. This article provides a detailed exploration of each of these three gems, examining their unique geological origins, gemological properties, historical journeys, and the cultural meanings they have accumulated over millennia. From the vibrant olive-green of peridot, formed in the Earth’s mantle, to the fiery bands of sardonyx used in ancient Roman seals, and the brilliant sparkle of spinel, long mistaken for ruby, the August birthstones offer a diverse palette for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot, the primary modern birthstone for August, is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine. It is celebrated for its distinctive lime-green color, a hue that sets it apart from many other green gemstones. The name "peridot" is believed to originate from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This vibrant stone is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color, though its shades can vary from yellowish-green and olive to brownish-green, with the color intensity determined by its iron content.
History and Lore
Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other precious green stones, most notably emeralds and topazes. This confusion has led to fascinating historical revelations. For instance, many "emeralds" adorning medieval European cathedral treasures have been re-identified as peridots. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, for example, is decorated with 200 carats of gems once believed to be emeralds, which are now known to be peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra's famous collection of emeralds may have actually consisted of peridot.
The gem’s history traces back to ancient Egypt, where it was mined on the island of Topazios in the Red Sea. The Egyptians revered peridot, calling it the "gem of the sun," and believed it possessed protective powers against evil spirits and nightmares. Its association with light and the sun made it a stone of great significance in ancient cultures.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation process is unique among gemstones. It is formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. This is why peridot is often found in hardened lava. In a truly extraordinary occurrence, peridot has also been discovered in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, making it one of the few gems of extraterrestrial origin.
Most commercial peridot today is sourced from Arizona, Pakistan, and China. The peridot from these regions is prized for its natural brightness and does not typically require any enhancements, making it a favorite among lovers of natural gemstones.
Gemological Properties
Peridot’s color ranges from yellow-green to deep olive, with the most valued stones displaying a rich, lime-green hue. It is a relatively hard and durable gem, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. Its chemical composition as a member of the Forsterite-Fayalite mineral group means its color is intrinsic to the mineral itself, rather than resulting from impurities as is the case with many other colored stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As the August birthstone, peridot is believed to bring good luck, peace, and success to those born in this month. Its symbolism extends to prosperity and protection, continuing the ancient beliefs in its power to ward off negative forces. The stone's warm, luminous glow is said to inspire positive emotions and personal growth.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot is a durable gemstone, but it requires proper care to maintain its luster. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes, which could potentially damage the stone. While it is hard enough for everyday wear, care should be taken to protect it from sharp blows.
Spinel: The Underappreciated Sparkler
For centuries, spinel was an unsung hero of the gem world, often overshadowed by more famous stones it was mistaken for. Today, it is celebrated as a brilliant and durable alternative, recognized as one of the three official August birthstones. Red spinel, in particular, was frequently confused with ruby, leading to some of history's most famous "rubies" being reclassified as spinels.
History and Sources
The spinel’s journey to recognition has been a long one. It was underappreciated until recently, as modern consumers began seeking alternatives to ruby. The gem’s history is tied to some of the world’s most significant mining locations, which produce a wide spectrum of colors.
Key sources for spinel include: * Vietnam: The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam has produced this August birthstone in deep red, purple, pink, violet, and violet-blue since the 1980s. A later discovery in the 2000s brought vivid blue spinels to light from this area. Accessing these mines is an adventure, requiring a long drive from Hanoi followed by hours of hiking or biking. * Tanzania: A significant discovery in 2007 in Tanzania captivated gem collectors with pinkish and orangy-red spinel. These mines also produce the August birthstone in purple and blue hues.
Gemological Properties
Spinel is a highly durable gemstone, rating 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it an excellent choice for rings and other jewelry that sees daily wear. Its stability under light and most chemicals adds to its appeal. However, high heat can cause some colors of spinel to fade, and care should be taken with ultrasonic or steam cleaners if the stone contains fractures. Warm, soapy water is always a safe cleaning alternative.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Spinel is associated with renewal and vitality. Its brilliant sparkle and wide range of colors are said to inspire energy and passion. For those born in August, it stands as a symbol of revitalization and strength.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Banded Beauty
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, with a history that stretches back more than 4,000 years. This unique gem is a variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, and is characterized by its striking bands of color.
History and Lore
As the most ancient of the August birthstones, sardonyx holds a special place in human history. It was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings because hot wax would not adhere to its smooth surface, making it ideal for imprinting designs. Its use in ancient seals speaks to its durability and its importance in daily life and communication. The combination of sard (brownish-red to brown to dark orange) and onyx (typically white or black) creates a visually compelling pattern that has been admired for millennia.
Gemological Properties
Sardonyx is a combination of two types of chalcedony: sard and onyx. Its defining characteristic is the alternating bands of reddish-brown sard and the white or black layers of onyx. This banded appearance makes it a unique and recognizable gemstone. Like other forms of chalcedony, it is relatively durable and suitable for a variety of jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx is strongly associated with courage, strength, and protection. Its historical use by Roman soldiers and leaders as a talisman for protection in battle is a testament to this belief. For individuals born in August, sardonyx represents fortitude and the ability to overcome challenges with bravery.
Conclusion
The August birthstones provide a remarkable trio of options, each with its own distinct character and appeal. Peridot, with its single-color range of vibrant greens, offers a connection to both the Earth’s fiery interior and the vastness of space. Spinel, with its dazzling array of colors and its recently gained recognition, provides brilliance and durability. Sardonyx, the original August stone, connects the modern wearer to an ancient legacy of strength and communication. Together, these three gems—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—celebrate the birth month of August with a unique combination of color, history, and profound symbolism.