August is unique in the calendar of birthstones, offering not one, but three distinct gemological choices: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This triad provides individuals born in the eighth month of the year with a wide spectrum of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings to choose from. While peridot has emerged as the most widely recognized primary birthstone for the month, the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx honors a tradition that stretches back thousands of years. These stones represent the warmth and energy of the late summer season, ranging from the vibrant green of peridot—often called the "gem of the sun"—to the banded fortitude of sardonyx and the sparkling versatility of spinel. Together, they offer a rich tapestry of geological wonder and cultural lore that appeals to gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.
The history of these stones is as layered as the gems themselves. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, boasts a lineage dating back over four millennia, serving as a talisman of strength and courage in the ancient world. Peridot, often confused throughout history with emeralds and topaz, possesses a unique origin story that includes formation deep within the Earth’s mantle and delivery via volcanic eruptions or even extraterrestrial meteorites. Finally, spinel, long underappreciated and mistaken for ruby, has recently gained the recognition it deserves as a gem of distinct beauty and vitality. This article will explore the geological formation, gemological properties, historical significance, and metaphysical beliefs associated with these three remarkable gemstones.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate. It is renowned for its distinctive color, which ranges from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow. Unlike many other gemstones that can display a variety of hues depending on trace elements, peridot is one of the few gems that appears in only one color family, though the intensity of that green varies based on its iron content. The name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This etymology reflects the stone's long-standing status as a prized possession in many ancient and medieval cultures.
History and Lore
Throughout history, peridot has frequently been the subject of mistaken identity. Because of its olive-green hue, it was often confused with other precious stones. The Red Sea island of Topazios, for example, was a source of peridot but gave its name to the gemstone topaz, leading to centuries of confusion. Perhaps the most famous historical example of this confusion involves the gemstones housed in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings is decorated with 200 carats of gems that were believed to be emeralds for centuries; modern analysis has confirmed that these stones are, in fact, peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s legendary collection of emeralds may have actually consisted of peridot.
The Egyptians held peridot in particularly high regard, referring to it as the "gem of the sun." They believed the stone possessed protective powers, capable of warding off nightmares and bringing happiness and strength to the wearer. This connection to the sun is likely due to the gem's radiant glow, which remains vivid even under artificial light.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is formed under extreme geological conditions. It is one of the few gems known to be formed in the Earth's mantle, the layer beneath the crust. Volcanic activity brings these stones to the surface, often found in the hardened lava of igneous rocks. Uniquely, peridot has also been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth from outer space, making it a truly extraterrestrial gemstone as well. While not extremely rare, high-quality peridot with an intense green color and few inclusions is highly sought after.
Spinel: The Underrated Sparkler
Spinel is the third August birthstone, a gem that has spent centuries in the shadow of other red stones, specifically the ruby. It is a magnesium aluminum oxide with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable and excellent choice for jewelry. Spinel occurs in a variety of colors, but it is most famous for its vibrant reds, which were frequently mistaken for rubies throughout history. Some of the world's most famous "rubies," including the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown, are actually spinels.
History and Recognition
For a long time, spinel was underappreciated by consumers and collectors alike. Its close resemblance to ruby meant that it was often valued less, despite its own inherent beauty and durability. However, in recent decades, spinel has enjoyed a renaissance. As modern consumers look for alternatives to ruby—both for reasons of price and ethical sourcing—spinel has stepped into the spotlight. It is now recognized as a distinct and valuable gemstone in its own right, celebrated for its brilliance and range of colors, which include not only red but also pink, blue, and purple.
Symbolism and Value
Spinel is associated with renewal and vitality. Its sparkling appearance and durability make it a symbol of energy and passion. For those born in August who prefer a gemstone with a bit more sparkle and a complex history, spinel offers a compelling choice. It serves as a testament to the idea that value and beauty are sometimes overlooked but are eventually recognized by those who look closely.
Sardonyx: The Original August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of the three August birthstones, with a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is a variety of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, specifically a mixture of sard and onyx. Sard ranges in color from reddish brown to a deep, reddish yellow, while onyx is typically black or white. When these two layers combine, they create the striking banded appearance characteristic of sardonyx.
Historical Significance
In the ancient world, sardonyx was highly prized for its use in cameos and intaglios—carved gemstones used to create portraits or signet rings. Its banding allowed artisans to create contrasting images, making it a favorite material for engravers. Beyond its aesthetic use, sardonyx was believed to be a stone of strength and protection. Roman soldiers would often wear sardonyx rings or amulets into battle, believing the stone would grant them courage and shield them from harm. It was also associated with the god Mars, further cementing its reputation as a talisman of bravery.
Physical Properties
As a variety of chalcedony, sardonyx has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably durable for jewelry. Its distinctive banding is its most defining feature, setting it apart from the uniform colors of peridot and the various hues of spinel. While it is the original August birthstone, it is less commonly found in modern jewelry compared to peridot and spinel, often appealing to those with a specific interest in ancient gemology or antique jewelry styles.
Gemological Properties
To provide a clear comparison of these three August birthstones, the following table outlines their key gemological characteristics based on the provided sources.
| Gemstone | Mineral Family | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Typical Colors | Key Distinguishing Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine | Magnesium Iron Silicate | Not specified in sources | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | Only gem found in one color family; formed in Earth's mantle and meteorites. |
| Spinel | Spinel | Magnesium Aluminum Oxide | 8 | Red, pink, blue, purple | Often mistaken for ruby; durable with high brilliance. |
| Sardonyx | Chalcedony (Quartz) | Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) | 7 | Reddish-brown and white/black bands | Distinctive banding; used extensively in ancient cameos. |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to the August birthstones is as diverse as the stones themselves. Peridot, with its solar connection, is viewed as a stone of prosperity, protection, and happiness. The Egyptians' belief in its ability to ward off evil spirits and nightmares has persisted into modern metaphysical thought, where it is often used to alleviate stress and bring a sense of peace.
Sardonyx carries the energy of the warrior. Its symbolism is rooted in strength, courage, and grounding. For those seeking to build self-confidence or overcome fear, sardonyx is traditionally considered a powerful ally. Its historical use by Roman soldiers lends credibility to its reputation as a protective stone.
Spinel is associated with renewal and vitality. Its vibrant colors and sparkling luster are believed to inspire passion and energy. It is seen as a stone that revitalizes the wearer's spirit, helping to overcome lethargy and inspiring a renewed sense of purpose.
Care and Cleaning
Understanding the physical properties of these gemstones is essential for their proper care and maintenance.
Peridot has a hardness that is generally cited as being around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, though sources in this context do not specify a numerical value. However, given its formation in the Earth's mantle, it is a relatively durable stone. It is, however, susceptible to thermal shock, meaning rapid temperature changes can cause it to fracture. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning.
Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is quite durable and resistant to scratching. It can be safely cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. Its hardness makes it suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear.
Sardonyx, as a variety of chalcedony with a hardness of 7, is also durable enough for regular wear. Like the other stones, it can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Because of its banding, it is important to ensure that dirt does not accumulate in the crevices of carved pieces.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a remarkable range of choices that celebrate the vibrancy of summer. From the solar glow of peridot, which bridges the gap between the Earth's core and the cosmos, to the fiery history of spinel, long mistaken for ruby, and the ancient, banded fortitude of sardonyx, each stone provides a unique connection to the natural world and human history. Whether chosen for their symbolic meanings, their geological origins, or their aesthetic beauty, these gems provide August-born individuals with a rich legacy to wear and cherish. Their enduring appeal lies in their distinct characters, ensuring that there is a perfect gem to match any personality or preference.