The month of August is uniquely distinguished in the world of gemology by possessing three official birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx. This triad offers a remarkable spectrum of color, history, and geological origin, providing those born in this month with a diverse selection of gems. While Peridot is celebrated for its distinct olive-green hue and extraterrestrial origins, Spinel has gained modern acclaim for its brilliance and historical confusion with ruby. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, stands as a testament to ancient lapidary art with its characteristic banding. Together, these stones represent a rich tapestry of geological phenomena and human culture, from the depths of the Earth's mantle to the breastplates of ancient priests.
The historical evolution of these birthstones reflects a growing appreciation for variety and choice. The modern list of birthstones, standardized in the early 20th century, originally featured only Peridot. However, the tradition has expanded to include Spinel, officially added by the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America in 2016, and Sardonyx, which serves as the traditional alternative. This article will explore the distinct characteristics of each gemstone, examining their geological formation, historical lore, gemological properties, and practical care. By delving into the specific attributes of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx, we can appreciate why August is considered one of the most versatile and historically significant months for birthstone jewelry.
The Legacy of Sardonyx: The Original August Birthstone
Sardonyx holds the distinction of being the earliest known birthstone for August, with a history that spans over four millennia. This gemstone is a variety of onyx, specifically composed of alternating layers of sard and onyx—two types of banded chalcedony, a mineral in the quartz family. The name "sardonyx" is derived from the Greek words for sard and onyx, reflecting its layered structure. Its appearance is often described as a "reddish zebra-striped" pattern, featuring bands of reddish-brown sard and white or black onyx.
The historical significance of Sardonyx is deeply rooted in ancient civilizations and religious texts. It is mentioned multiple times in the Bible, notably as one of the gems on the Breastplate of Aaron, which symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel. Furthermore, Sardonyx was cited in the Book of Revelation as one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. Christian scholars in the fifth century began to link these twelve stones from the breastplate to the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac, establishing the foundational concept of birthstones. This ancient association imbues Sardonyx with a profound sense of heritage and spiritual importance.
Beyond its religious connections, Sardonyx was highly valued by ancient cultures for its use as a seal stone. Due to its relative hardness and distinct banding, it was ideal for carving cameos and intaglios, which were used to imprint wax seals on documents. This practical application made it a staple in Roman and Greek society. Today, Sardonyx remains an accessible and affordable gemstone, making it an attractive option for those seeking a connection to ancient traditions without a significant financial investment. Its availability ensures that it is a gemstone that high-quality jewelry stores frequently stock, particularly for those born in August.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun and Deep Earth
Peridot is the modern and traditional birthstone for August, recognized for its beautiful range of yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hues. As a gem variety of the mineral olivine, Peridot’s chemical composition is magnesium iron silicate. Its most captivating characteristic, however, is its origin. Unlike the vast majority of gemstones that crystallize in the Earth's crust, Peridot is one of only two gems (the other being diamond) known to form deep within the Earth's mantle. These crystals are then brought to the surface by volcanic activity, often found within hardened lava. In rare and fascinating instances, Peridot has also been identified in meteorites that have traveled from outer space, lending it an almost cosmic allure.
The history of Peridot is marked by a persistent case of mistaken identity. For centuries, this gemstone was frequently confused with other precious stones, most notably emeralds and topaz. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a source that gave rise to the name "topaz," was actually a prolific source of Peridot. One of the most famous examples of this confusion is the collection of 200 carats of gemstones adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. For centuries, these stones were believed to be emeralds, but modern analysis has confirmed they are, in fact, Peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s legendary collection of emeralds may have actually consisted of Peridot.
The name "Peridot" is believed to originate from the Arabic word "faridat," which simply means "gem." This simple etymology belies the stone's complex formation and storied past. Peridot has been valued in many ancient and medieval cultures, cherished for its vibrant color which seems to glow from within. Its formation under extreme conditions in the mantle and its occasional arrival from space make it a truly unique gem in the geological world, a testament to the powerful forces that shape our planet and the wider cosmos.
Spinel: The Underappreciated Beauty
Spinel is the newest addition to the list of August birthstones, officially recognized by the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America in 2016. Its inclusion provides August-born individuals with a third, dazzling option. For centuries, Spinel was underappreciated, largely because it was so often mistaken for other, more famous gemstones. Most notably, red spinel was confused with ruby, leading to some of the world's most famous "rubies" being re-identified as spinel. This historical misidentification has recently worked in spinel's favor, as modern consumers actively seek out beautiful and durable gemstones that offer an alternative to more traditional and expensive options like ruby.
Spinel boasts an impressive range of hues, making it a versatile gem for jewelry. While the red varieties are the most famous, spinel occurs in a spectrum of colors, including vibrant pinks, rich blues, and deep purples. This diversity, combined with its excellent physical properties, has elevated its status in the contemporary gem market. It is a durable stone, suitable for all types of jewelry, and its brilliance can rival that of many more established gems.
The journey of spinel from a misunderstood "imposter" to a celebrated birthstone highlights the evolving nature of gemology and consumer taste. Its recent promotion to official birthstone status for August reflects a broader trend toward appreciating gemstones for their intrinsic beauty and durability, rather than just their historical prestige or rarity. For those born in August, spinel offers a modern, vibrant, and distinct choice that carries a rich, if previously overlooked, history.
Gemological Properties and Comparisons
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of the August birthstones is essential for appreciating their unique characteristics and for making informed decisions regarding their care and use in jewelry. The three stones differ significantly in hardness, chemical composition, and crystal structure.
Peridot, as a variety of olivine, has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. While reasonably hard, it is more susceptible to scratching than some other popular gems like sapphire or diamond. It possesses no cleavage, which is a benefit for durability, but it can be brittle and prone to chipping if struck with force. Its chemical formula is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄.
Spinel is a significantly harder and more durable choice for jewelry, rating an 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it resistant to everyday wear and tear. Its chemical composition is magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄). Spinel is also singly refractive, similar to diamond, which contributes to its excellent brilliance and clarity when cut well.
Sardonyx, being a variety of chalcedony (quartz), has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably durable. Its layered composition of sard and onyx gives it a unique appearance but also means that care must be taken during cutting and setting to preserve the integrity of the bands.
| Property | Peridot | Spinel | Sardonyx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine | Spinel | Chalcedony (Quartz) |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | MgAl₂O₄ | SiO₂ |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 | 8 | 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Cubic | Trigonal (Microcrystalline) |
| Typical Colors | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | Wide range, including red, pink, blue, purple | Bands of reddish-brown and white/black |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Across cultures and centuries, each of the August birthstones has accumulated a wealth of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs. These associations add a layer of intangible value to the gems, connecting them to human hopes, fears, and aspirations.
Peridot has long been associated with growth, prosperity, love, loyalty, and protection. Its vibrant green color, reminiscent of new life and nature, naturally lends itself to themes of renewal and vitality. Ancient cultures believed Peridot possessed protective powers, warding off evil spirits and nightmares. It was often set in gold for this purpose. The stone's connection to the heart chakra in modern metaphysical practices reinforces its association with love and emotional healing.
Sardonyx, with its ancient heritage, is primarily linked to courage, protection, and strength. As a stone historically used for seals, it also symbolizes communication and eloquence. In ancient Rome, soldiers would wear Sardonyx amulets into battle, believing they would grant them bravery and shield them from harm. Its presence in religious artifacts further solidifies its image as a stone of holiness and steadfastness.
Spinel, particularly the red varieties, has been associated with vitality and rejuvenation. As it has shaken off its historical confusion with ruby, it has begun to develop its own identity as a stone of hope and resilience. Its wide range of colors allows for a broader spectrum of symbolic meanings, with pink spinel often linked to love and compassion, and blue spinel to calm and tranquility. For the modern August-born individual, spinel represents a fresh start and the joy of discovering a gem of great beauty and significance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is crucial for maintaining the beauty and longevity of August birthstone jewelry. The differing hardness and durability of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx necessitate specific cleaning and handling guidelines.
Peridot, with its hardness of 6.5 to 7 and relative brittleness, requires gentle handling. It should be cleaned using warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can cause damage. It is also wise to store Peridot jewelry separately to prevent it from being scratched by harder gems.
Spinel is the most durable of the three, thanks to its Mohs hardness of 8. It is resilient enough for everyday wear and can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is generally stable under exposure to light and heat, and it can be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner, though caution is always advised with any gemstone jewelry.
Sardonyx, like Peridot, is safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Its hardness of 7 makes it durable enough for regular wear, but it should be protected from sharp blows and extreme temperature changes, which could potentially damage the stone or affect its banding. As with all gemstones, it is best to avoid harsh chemicals and cosmetics coming into direct contact with the stone.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—offer a compelling narrative of geological marvels, historical intrigue, and enduring beauty. Sardonyx connects the modern wearer to an ancient lineage of spiritual significance and practical use, serving as the original August gem with its distinctive bands. Peridot captivates with its mantle-deep origins and extraterrestrial possibilities, a gem of the Earth's core that has been mistaken for emeralds throughout history. Spinel, the newest official birthstone, provides a durable and brilliant alternative, finally receiving recognition for its own unique merits after centuries of being overshadowed.
This triad of gems ensures that individuals born in August have an unparalleled choice, from the classic olive-green of Peridot to the fiery reds and serene blues of Spinel, and the historic banding of Sardonyx. Each stone carries a unique set of properties, stories, and symbolic meanings, reflecting the diverse character of the month itself. Whether chosen for their historical depth, geological wonder, or simply their aesthetic appeal, these three birthstones stand as a testament to the rich and varied world of gemology.