The month of August is unique in the gemological calendar, offering not one, but three distinct official birthstones. This rare multiplicity provides those born in this summer month a diverse palette of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings to choose from. The primary modern birthstone is Peridot, a gem celebrated for its vibrant lime-green glow. Alongside peridot stand Spinel and Sardonyx, historic alternatives that have recently been reaffirmed by trade authorities. Peridot is known for its formation under extreme conditions, found in deep Earth mantle material brought to the surface by volcanoes and even in meteorites that traveled from outer space. Spinel has historically been underappreciated, often mistaken for ruby, but is now valued as a stunning gem in its own right. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, boasts a history that dates back over 4,000 years, recognized for its striking bands of reddish-brown and white. Together, these three gems represent a spectrum of vitality, protection, and strength, making the August birthstone selection a fascinating journey into the science, history, and lore of gemstones.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot, the most well-known of the August stones, is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. Its distinctive color is a direct result of its iron content, and unlike many other gemstones, peridot occurs in only one color family, though shades can vary from yellowish-green and olive to brownish-green. The most prized peridot displays a rich, vibrant lime-green hue. The name "peridot" is believed to originate from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem.
History and Lore
Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other precious green gems, including emerald and topaz. This confusion has led to some remarkable historical revelations. For instance, the 200 carats of gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, long believed to be emeralds, were later identified as peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been comprised of peridot. The source of the name "topaz" itself, the Red Sea island of Topazios, was a prolific producer of peridot, further muddying historical records.
Ancient cultures held peridot in high regard. The ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun," believing it offered protection against nightmares and brought the wearer happiness and strength. This belief in its protective powers has persisted through the ages, and as the August birthstone, peridot is still believed to bring good luck, peace, and success to those born in this month.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation process is one of the most extreme among gemstones. It is found in hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle, a testament to its volcanic origins. In a truly cosmic display, it has also been found in meteorites, making it one of the few gems not of this world. Most commercial peridot today is sourced from volcanic regions, with major sources located in Arizona, Pakistan, and China. Its natural brightness and color do not typically require enhancements, making it a favorite among lovers of natural gemstones.
Gemological Properties
As a variety of the mineral olivine, peridot has specific gemological characteristics. Its chemical composition is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. While the provided sources do not specify its refractive index or exact hardness, its durability is suitable for jewelry, though it does require proper care. Its most defining characteristic is its color, which remains consistent across all specimens, varying only in shade and intensity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is a stone of strength and vitality. It is associated with prosperity, good fortune, and peace. Historically, it was believed to ward off nightmares and evil spirits, a belief that ancient Egyptians held in high esteem. Its warm, luminous glow is thought to be uplifting, and it is still appreciated today for its positive energy and connection to the sun.
Spinel: The Underappreciated Sparkler
For centuries, spinel was the unsung hero of the gem world, often living in the shadow of more famous stones. Red spinel, in particular, was mistaken for ruby for hundreds of years, with many famous "rubies" in royal collections later being re-identified as spinel. It was only relatively recently that spinel gained the recognition it deserves as a beautiful and valuable gem in its own right.
History and Lore
The history of spinel is intrinsically linked to its confusion with ruby. This misidentification occurred because of their similar appearance, but a closer look reveals that spinel is a different mineral altogether. The addition of spinel to the official list of August birthstones in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) was a modern correction to this historical oversight, giving consumers a new and exciting alternative. Its recent elevation to birthstone status highlights a growing appreciation for gemological accuracy and the rediscovery of historically significant stones.
Gemological Properties
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄). It is known for its brilliant luster and excellent clarity. While the sources do not detail its hardness or refractive index, it is a durable gemstone suitable for all types of jewelry. Spinel boasts a wider range of colors than perhaps any other gem, dazzling with options that include deep red, vivid pink, orange, blue, or black. The red variety is the most popular and is often compared to ruby, but its other colors, especially the vibrant pinks and blues, are gaining significant popularity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Although the provided sources focus more on the historical and gemological aspects of spinel, its recent inclusion as a birthstone adds a layer of modern symbolism. It represents a choice for those seeking an alternative—something unique yet classic. Its history of being mistaken for ruby lends it an air of nobility and strength, while its diverse color palette offers a personal touch for the August-born individual.
Sardonyx: The Original August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of the three August birthstones, with a history that stretches back more than 4,000 years. It is a variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz, and is characterized by its distinctive banding.
History and Lore
As the original August birthstone, sardonyx has a long and storied past. It is a combination of sard and onyx, featuring bold bands of reddish-brown (sard) and white or black (onyx). This striking appearance made it a favorite in ancient times for cameos and intaglios, where the contrasting bands could be carved to create intricate designs. Its long history as a protective stone is well-documented, and it was often worn as an amulet to guard against harm.
Gemological Properties
Sardonyx is a banded chalcedony. Its primary characteristic is its layered structure, which creates the distinctive stripes that make it instantly recognizable. The reddish-brown bands of sard contrast sharply with the white or black bands of onyx, creating a visually arresting effect. As a member of the quartz family, it has a hardness suitable for carving and jewelry use.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx is strongly associated with strength, protection, and courage. In ancient Rome, it was a popular stone for soldiers, who believed it would protect them in battle and grant them courage. Its protective symbolism has made it a meaningful choice for personal adornment throughout history, representing not just decoration but a source of strength and security for the wearer.
August Birthstone Colors and Symbolism
The three August birthstones offer a remarkable spectrum of color and meaning. * Peridot provides a consistent and vibrant lime-green, symbolizing the sun, good fortune, and peace. * Spinel offers a rainbow of options, with vivid reds, pinks, and blues being the most popular, representing vitality and a modern alternative to traditional gems. * Sardonyx presents a classic, earthy palette with its bold bands of reddish-brown and white, symbolizing strength, protection, and courage.
This diversity allows individuals born in August to select a gemstone that not only matches their personal style but also resonates with their desired symbolism, whether it be the sunny disposition of peridot, the dynamic energy of spinel, or the steadfast protection of sardonyx.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of any gemstone. While the provided sources do not offer specific cleaning instructions for each stone, general gemological principles apply based on their known properties.
- Peridot: As a gem with moderate hardness, peridot should be protected from hard knocks and extreme temperature changes, which can cause fracturing. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided.
- Spinel: Spinel is generally durable and has good hardness, making it relatively easy to care for. It can typically be cleaned with warm soapy water, a soft brush, and an ultrasonic cleaner, though it is always wise to check for any fractures or inclusions first.
- Sardonyx: Being a variety of chalcedony (quartz), sardonyx has good durability. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is generally stable and not subject to heat or light damage.
For all three stones, avoiding harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes will help preserve their integrity and luster for generations.
Conclusion
The August birthstone selection is a celebration of diversity in the gem world. From the volcanic and cosmic origins of the sun-kissed peridot to the historically misidentified but brilliant spinel and the ancient, banded strength of sardonyx, these three gems offer a rich tapestry of color, history, and meaning. They provide a unique opportunity for those born in August to choose a stone that speaks to their personal history, aesthetic preference, and spiritual beliefs. Whether drawn to the vibrant green of peridot, the dazzling spectrum of spinel, or the classic stripes of sardonyx, the August-born individual is connected to a legacy of gemstones that are as powerful and varied as the summer month itself.