The month of August is uniquely endowed with three official birthstones, offering a diverse palette of colors, histories, and properties. The modern birthstones for August are peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Among these, peridot and spinel stand out as the most popular choices in contemporary jewelry, celebrated for their vibrant hues and compelling backstories. Peridot, with its signature lime green glow, is a gem forged in the fiery depths of the Earth and even delivered from the cosmos, while spinel, available in a spectacular array of colors, has a history of being mistaken for the world’s most prized rubies. Together, they represent a fascinating intersection of geology, history, and lore, providing August-born individuals with a rich selection of gems that embody renewal, protection, and enduring beauty.
The allure of August's birthstones lies in their distinct characteristics. Peridot, the primary precious birthstone, is a variety of the mineral olivine, known for its consistent olive-green hue and its association with light and the sun. Spinel, its own mineral species, captivates with its brilliance and color range, from deep reds that rival ruby to vibrant blues and pinks. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, is a banded variety of chalcedony, prized by ancient civilizations for its use in seals and amulets. This article will delve into the rich history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of these remarkable gems, providing a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone captivated by the beauty of August's luminous stones.
The Precious Birthstone: Peridot
History and Lore
Peridot holds a distinguished and ancient lineage, with a history that stretches back millennia. The name "peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This etymology points to its long-standing value in Middle Eastern cultures. One of the earliest and most significant sources of peridot was the volcanic island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. Historical records indicate that peridot was mined on this island as early as 1500 BCE, with the ancient Egyptians being among its most ardent admirers. They revered the stone as the "gem of the sun," believing it carried the energy of light and renewal. Pharaohs adorned themselves with peridot, and it was thought to offer powerful protection against evil spirits and nightmares.
The gem's history is also marked by frequent confusion with other precious stones, particularly emerald. Throughout history, many famous collections of "emeralds" have been discovered to be peridot. 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 now known to be peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been comprised of magnificent peridots. This misidentification underscores peridot's visual appeal and its ability to command the same reverence as the most prized green gems. Its reputation as the "evening emerald" stems from its unique capacity to sparkle brilliantly under natural or artificial light, showcasing a vibrant glow that distinguishes it from other green stones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot's origin story is one of the most extraordinary in the gemological world. As the gem variety of the mineral olivine, peridot is formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth's mantle. Its chemical formula is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄, a magnesium iron silicate. The gem's signature green color is a direct result of the amount of iron present within its crystal structure.
What makes peridot truly unique is that it can be brought to the Earth's surface through volcanic activity. Molten rock from the mantle carries peridot crystals upward, depositing them in volcanic lava, such as basalt. This process allows for the formation of larger, jewelry-quality stones. In a truly cosmic twist, peridot is also found in pallasite meteorites—stony-iron meteorites that originated from the cores of differentiated planetesimals. These extraterrestrial peridots, sometimes called "pallasitic peridot," are often small and may contain needle-like inclusions, but they are a testament to the gem's formation in the vastness of space. While peridot from meteorites is exceptionally rare and not typically used in jewelry, its existence adds to the stone's mystic allure.
Today, significant sources of peridot include Pakistan, which is renowned for producing large, high-quality crystals; Arizona in the United States; Mexico; and Vietnam. The gem's accessibility has made it a popular choice, though larger stones with vivid, consistent green hues remain rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a distinct set of physical characteristics that define its identity and value.
- Color: The gem is predominantly known for its light green to yellowish-green color. The most desirable peridot exhibits a rich, vibrant olive-green hue without secondary brownish tints. The color intensity is directly correlated with the iron content.
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7. This makes it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and pendants, though it requires some care to avoid scratches and chipping.
- Crystal System: Peridot crystallizes in the orthorhombic system.
- Luster: It has a vitreous (glass-like) luster, which contributes to its brilliant sparkle.
- Unique Inclusions: Peridot is known for its "lily pads," which are disc-shaped inclusions that resemble the floating pads of a lily. These are often visible under magnification and can be a diagnostic feature of the gem.
The combination of its vibrant color, good hardness, and brilliant luster makes peridot a prized gem for jewelers and a beloved birthstone for those born in August.
The Versatile Alternative: Spinel
History and Lore
Spinel's history is a story of mistaken identity and re-emerging glory. For centuries, this brilliant gem was confused with other precious stones, most notably ruby. Many of the world's most famous "rubies" are, in fact, spinels. The most celebrated example is the "Black Prince's Ruby," a massive 170-carat red spinel that is part of the British Crown Jewels. It was given to Edward, the Black Prince, in 1367 and was long believed to be a ruby. Similarly, the "Timur Ruby," a 360-carat red spinel, also resides in the British Crown Jewels and was mistaken for a ruby for centuries. This history of misidentification meant that spinel was often undervalued, treated as a mere imitation rather than a gemstone worthy of its own acclaim.
Only in recent times has spinel begun to receive the recognition it deserves. Modern gemologists have established it as its own distinct mineral species, separate from ruby and sapphire. Its name is thought to originate from the Spanish word spinella, meaning "spine," in reference to the pointed, octahedral crystals in which it often forms. Today, spinel is celebrated for its own unique beauty, brilliance, and wide range of natural colors, making it a favorite among gemstone connoisseurs and jewelry designers seeking an alternative to traditional precious gems.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄) and belongs to the spinel group of minerals. It forms under high-temperature, low-pressure conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks like marble and alluvial deposits. The gem's diverse color palette is due to trace elements: chromium imparts a vibrant red, while iron and cobalt can produce stunning blue hues, and vanadium can create green or violet shades.
Major sources of spinel include Myanmar (Burma), which is famous for its coveted "ruby red" spinels; Sri Lanka, known for producing a wide variety of colors; Vietnam, a source of exceptional red and pink spinels; and Tanzania, which is renowned for its vivid blue and purple stones. The gem's relative rarity, especially in its most sought-after colors and sizes, contributes to its growing value in the market.
Gemological Properties
Spinel's physical properties make it an excellent gemstone for jewelry, combining beauty with durability.
- Color: Spinel boasts one of the most extensive color ranges of any gemstone. It can be found in red, pink, blue, purple, orange, and even black. The red varieties are the most prized, closely mimicking the color of fine ruby.
- Hardness: With a Mohs hardness of 8, spinel is quite durable and resistant to scratching, making it an ideal choice for rings and other pieces subjected to daily wear.
- Brilliance: Spinel has a high refractive index, giving it a bright, sparkling appearance. Its lack of pleochroism (the display of different colors when viewed from different angles) means its color is consistent and vibrant from all directions.
- Clarity: High-quality spinel is typically "eye-clean," meaning it lacks visible inclusions. This clarity enhances its brilliance and appeal.
Spinel's combination of exceptional hardness, brilliance, and a spectacular color range has rightfully earned its place as a modern and cherished birthstone for August.
The Original Birthstone: Sardonyx
While peridot and spinel are the most popular modern choices, sardonyx holds the distinction of being the original August birthstone. This gem is a banded variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz. It consists of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a black and white banded chalcedony). Its striking bands of red and white make it a visually distinct gem.
Sardonyx has a history that predates many other birthstones, with its use dating back over 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia. It was highly prized by the Greeks and Romans for creating cameos and intaglios (carved gems). Because of its relative hardness (around 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale) and its ability to hold a sharp, detailed carving, it was the preferred material for signet rings and seals, used to stamp official documents with wax. The Romans believed sardonyx could grant the wearer courage in battle and protect them from harm and negative energy. Though less common in modern jewelry, its historical significance and unique banded appearance ensure it remains an important part of August's birthstone trio.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The August birthstones are rich in symbolism and are believed to hold various metaphysical properties.
Peridot is overwhelmingly associated with light, positivity, and protection. As the "gem of the sun," it is believed to carry the power of light, dispelling darkness and negativity. Ancient cultures thought it could ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from nightmares. Symbolically, peridot is linked to prosperity, abundance, and good fortune. It is also associated with the heart chakra, promoting emotional balance, compassion, and forgiveness. For those born in August, it is said to bring warmth, renewal, and a sense of purpose.
Spinel, with its wide array of colors, carries a broad spectrum of meanings. Red spinel is associated with revitalization and energy, thought to breathe new life into the wearer. The stone as a whole is often linked to passion, endurance, and happiness. It is believed to help overcome lethargy and inspire creativity. Some modern crystal healing practices suggest spinel can aid in achieving goals and attaining spiritual equilibrium, making it a stone of both physical and mental rejuvenation.
Sardonyx, the ancient protector, is traditionally associated with courage, strength, and protection. In ancient Rome, soldiers would wear sardonyx amulets into battle for bravery and safeguarding. It is also considered a stone of happiness and good fortune, believed to foster stable, committed relationships and bring marital bliss. Its grounding energy is thought to promote discipline and self-control.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these gemstones. The primary consideration for cleaning any gemstone is its hardness and durability.
Peridot (Hardness 6.5-7): Due to its moderate hardness, peridot can be susceptible to scratching if not handled carefully. It is best cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the gem can be sensitive to rapid temperature changes. Store peridot jewelry separately to prevent it from being scratched by harder gems like diamonds or sapphires.
Spinel (Hardness 8): Spinel is quite durable and generally easy to care for. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is also generally stable under ultrasonic cleaning, though it is always wise to check with a professional jeweler first, especially if the stone has been fracture-filled. Spinel is also stable under light and heat.
Sardonyx (Hardness 6.5-7): As a variety of chalcedony, sardonyx shares similar care requirements with peridot. Clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners. Store it carefully to prevent scratches and impacts.
Conclusion
The birthstones of August offer a compelling narrative of geological wonder, historical depth, and symbolic power. Peridot, the "sun gem" from the Earth's mantle and the stars, captivates with its warm, life-affirming green. Spinel, the long-misunderstood gem, dazzles with its exceptional brilliance and a rainbow of colors, now rightfully earning its place among treasured jewels. And Sardonyx, the ancient stone of seals and soldiers, provides a link to millennia of human history and belief. Together, they provide a remarkable collection that appeals to a wide range of tastes and preferences. For those born in August, these stones are more than just beautiful adornments; they are emblems of strength, renewal, and protection, carrying with them the fiery origins of the Earth and the enduring light of the sun.
Sources
- August Birthstones: Peridot and Spinel
- August Birthstones: Peridot Meaning & Healing Powers
- August Birthstone Color
- August Gemstones: All About Peridot & Spinel
- What is the Official August Birthstone?
- August Birthstone
- A Guide to Birthstones: Gemstones Precious and Semi-Precious, and Everything in Between