The month of August is uniquely represented by two distinct and captivating birthstones: peridot and spinel. This duality offers individuals born in this month a remarkable choice between two gems, each with its own unique character, history, and allure. Peridot, with its signature lime-green hue, has been cherished for centuries, earning the moniker "the gem of the sun" for its radiant color. More recently, spinel has been recognized as a co-birthstone, providing a spectrum of vibrant colors and its own compelling history, often mistaken for other precious gems throughout time.
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of August's birthstones, offering an in-depth exploration for the gemstone enthusiast, prospective jewelry buyer, and student of gemology. We will journey through the rich history and lore of both peridot and spinel, examining their geological origins and primary sources around the globe. A detailed analysis of their gemological properties will provide the scientific foundation for understanding their unique characteristics, from hardness to chemical composition. Furthermore, we will explore the symbolism and metaphysical beliefs that have been ascribed to these stones across different cultures. Finally, this article will offer practical, essential advice on the care and maintenance of jewelry featuring these beautiful gems, ensuring their brilliance endures for generations.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is as vibrant as its color. Ancient civilizations held this gem in high esteem, with its use dating back thousands of years. The Egyptians were among the first to mine and revere peridot, calling it the "gem of the sun." They believed it protected its wearer from the terrors of the night and warded off evil spirits. Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection is now believed by many gemologists to have actually been peridot, sourced from Zabargad Island in the Red Sea. This historical connection highlights the long-standing value placed on this green gem.
Throughout history, peridot has been confused with other green stones like emerald. The immense "Topaz of the Vatican," a large yellow-green stone, was for centuries thought to be a topaz but is now identified as peridot. This historical misidentification speaks to the gem's visual appeal and its ability to command attention. The source material notes that peridot is often called the "gem of the sun," a name rooted in its radiant, sun-like green hue. This connection to light and warmth has imbued the stone with centuries of symbolism related to positivity and protection.
Spinel, the more recent addition to the August birthstone list, boasts an equally fascinating, if sometimes overlooked, history. For centuries, spinel was the great imposter, frequently mistaken for ruby. Some of the world's most famous "rubies," such as the Black Prince's Ruby and the Timur Ruby, which are part of the British Crown Jewels, are in fact magnificent red spinels. These stones were not intentionally deceptive; rather, their similar appearance and occurrence in the same mining regions of Asia led to their misidentification.
The recognition of spinel as a distinct gemstone is a relatively modern development in gemology. While it has been admired for its beauty for centuries, its formal separation from the ruby family and its designation as a birthstone for August provide it with a unique identity. This journey from being a celebrated but misunderstood gem to taking its rightful place as a recognized birthstone adds a layer of contemporary significance to its rich past. The sources indicate that spinel was often mistaken for other gemstones, which underscores its visual appeal and the need for gemological expertise to distinguish it.
The journey of both peridot and spinel to their status as modern birthstones is a story of rediscovery and formal recognition. The American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) first standardized the list of birthstones in 1912. Peridot was included in this original list, solidifying its place as the primary August gem. Spinel was officially added to the modern birthstone list much later, in 2016, by the same organization. This recent inclusion reflects a growing appreciation for the gem's diversity and beauty, and a desire to offer August-born individuals a wider array of color choices beyond the singular green of peridot.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is unique among gemstones as it is formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Its formation occurs in peridotite, a rock that is rarely found on the Earth's surface. This process means that peridot is not found in the typical gemstone-bearing veins or alluvial deposits like many other gems, but rather in volcanic rock. This origin story contributes to its mystique and is a key factor in its geological identity.
Historically, the primary source of peridot was Zabargad Island in the Red Sea, which the ancient Egyptians called "the isle of topazios." This location produced peridots that were used in ancient jewelry. Today, however, the most significant sources of peridot are located in the United States, particularly in Arizona's San Carlos Apache Reservation. This region is known for producing peridot in a range of green hues. Other notable modern sources include Pakistan, which produces large, high-quality crystals, as well as China, Myanmar, and Australia. The volcanic origins of peridot mean that its sources are geologically specific and often tied to active or ancient volcanic regions.
Spinel, on the other hand, forms under high-temperature and low-pressure conditions, often in the metamorphic rock called dolomite. It can also be found in alluvial deposits, where it has been weathered from its original host rock and transported by water. The gem's formation process is distinct from that of peridot, contributing to its different set of physical properties and its wide array of colors.
The historical sources of spinel are concentrated in Southeast and Central Asia. The famous "ruby" mines of Badakhshan, in present-day Tajikistan and Afghanistan, were the source of the large red spinels that adorned the crowns of emperors and kings. The name "spinel" itself is derived from the Latin word "spina," meaning thorn, likely referring to the sharp, pointed crystals in which it is often found. In addition to these historical sources, spinel is now also mined in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania, among other locations. These diverse sources contribute to the wide color range available in the market today, from the coveted reds and vibrant blues to softer pinks and purples.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of peridot and spinel is crucial for appreciating their value, durability, and suitability for jewelry, especially for rings that are subject to daily wear. These properties are the scientific basis for distinguishing them from other gems and for ensuring their proper care.
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine. Its chemical formula is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. The characteristic green color of peridot is due to the presence of iron within its crystal structure. On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7. This makes it a moderately durable gem, suitable for jewelry like rings, but it requires more care than harder stones like sapphire or diamond. Its toughness is generally considered fair to good, but it does possess poor cleavage, meaning it can break if struck with sufficient force along certain planes. Peridot has a refractive index ranging from 1.654 to 1.690 and is typically eye-clean, meaning it lacks visible inclusions, which contributes to its brilliant, clean appearance.
Spinel is magnesium aluminium oxide, with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄. It is significantly harder than peridot, ranking an 8 on the Mohs scale, making it exceptionally durable and resistant to scratching. This high hardness makes spinel an excellent choice for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that see frequent use. Spinel also has good toughness and perfect cleavage in some directions, though it is generally considered to be quite durable. Its refractive index is similar to that of ruby and sapphire, ranging from 1.712 to 1.762, which is one reason it was so often mistaken for these other gems. Spinel is also typically eye-clean, allowing light to pass through it unimpeded and resulting in a vibrant sparkle.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of both August birthstones:
| Property | Peridot | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 | 8 |
| Refractive Index | 1.654 - 1.690 | 1.712 - 1.762 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Cubic |
| Primary Color | Olive Green, Yellow-Green | Wide Range (Red, Blue, Pink) |
| Toughness | Fair to Good | Good |
| Cleavage | Poor | Imperfect |
This comparison highlights the distinct scientific profiles of the two gems. While peridot is prized for its unique chemical makeup and color origin, spinel is celebrated for its exceptional hardness and optical properties that rival those of the most precious gems.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The allure of peridot and spinel extends beyond their physical beauty into the realm of symbolism and metaphysical belief. For centuries, these stones have been attributed with various powers and meanings, making them not just decorative items but also talismans and sources of spiritual strength.
Peridot, the "gem of the sun," is strongly associated with light, warmth, and positivity. Ancient beliefs held that it could dispel darkness and fear, protecting its wearer from nightmares and evil spirits. Its connection to the sun suggests themes of vitality, growth, and abundance. In modern crystal healing, peridot is often associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional well-being, openness, and forgiveness. It is considered a stone of compassion and is thought to bring joy and a sense of renewal to the wearer. The historical belief in its protective qualities has evolved into a contemporary view of peridot as a gem that fosters positivity and helps one move forward.
Spinel, with its wide array of colors, carries a diverse range of symbolic meanings. Red spinel, in particular, has been associated with vitality and overcoming lethargy, owing to its vibrant, ruby-like appearance. Blue spinel is often linked to calmness, clarity of thought, and communication. Throughout history, because it was mistaken for ruby, spinel inherited some of the ruby's symbolism, which included passion, power, and prosperity. In modern metaphysical beliefs, spinel is considered a stone of renewal and hope. It is believed to rejuvenate the body and spirit, helping to overcome challenges and achieve one's goals. Its association with resetting and new beginnings makes it a fitting symbol for the latter part of summer and the transition into autumn, which August represents.
Both stones are seen as symbols of personal significance for those born in August. Peridot offers a connection to ancient history and the power of the sun, while spinel provides a modern choice with a rich, complex past. Together, they represent a balance of tradition and variety, allowing for a personal interpretation of what it means to have an August birthstone.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any piece of gemstone jewelry. Due to their differing physical properties, peridot and spinel require slightly different approaches to cleaning and maintenance.
Caring for Peridot: Given its moderate hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is more susceptible to scratching than harder gems. It is also sensitive to sudden and extreme temperature changes, which can cause fractures. For these reasons, ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are not recommended for peridot. The safest method for cleaning a peridot ring is a simple, gentle approach. Use warm water and a mild dish soap. A soft brush, such as a baby toothbrush, can be used to gently scrub the stone and its setting. After cleaning, rinse the ring thoroughly to remove any soap residue and pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
It is also crucial to protect peridot from harsh chemicals. Household cleaners, chlorine in swimming pools, and even some cosmetics and perfumes can dull the stone's surface or damage the metal of the setting. It is best practice to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in activities that involve chemical exposure. When not being worn, store your peridot ring in a separate pouch or a lined compartment of a jewelry box to prevent it from being scratched by other, harder jewelry items.
Caring for Spinel: Spinel's high hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale makes it a very durable and low-maintenance gem. It is resistant to scratching and can withstand the rigors of daily wear more easily than peridot. Spinel can generally be safely cleaned using both warm, soapy water and commercial jewelry cleaning solutions. Ultrasonic cleaners are typically safe for spinel, but it is always wise to exercise caution, especially if the stone is set in a delicate or antique setting. Steam cleaning is also generally acceptable for spinel.
Despite its durability, it is still advisable to store spinel jewelry separately to prevent any potential damage to other softer gems or to the spinel itself from harder stones like diamonds. As with any fine jewelry, regular checks of the setting are recommended to ensure the stone remains secure.
By following these care guidelines, owners of peridot and spinel rings can ensure their jewelry remains a brilliant and cherished accessory, symbolizing the warmth and significance of the August birthstone for years to come.
Conclusion
Peridot and spinel stand as the two celebrated birthstones for the month of August, each offering a unique narrative of history, science, and symbolism. Peridot, the ancient "gem of the sun," captivates with its radiant green hue, a color born from iron deep within the Earth's volcanic heart. Its legacy stretches from the ancient Egyptian civilization to modern-day Arizona, and its lore is rich with themes of protection, positivity, and renewal. Its moderate hardness requires mindful care, but its eye-clean brilliance and historical significance make it a timeless choice.
Spinel, the more recent co-birthstone, provides a stunning alternative with its exceptional hardness and a kaleidoscope of colors. Its history is one of mistaken identity, having graced royal collections as imposter rubies, yet this only underscores its remarkable beauty. Sourced from the historic mines of Asia and other regions worldwide, spinel offers durability and a vibrant sparkle that rivals the most precious of gems. Its symbolism is tied to revitalization and hope, making it a powerful talisman for those born in August.
Together, these two gems provide a remarkable choice for individuals born in August. Whether drawn to the historical warmth of peridot or the resilient and varied beauty of spinel, the wearer is connected to a rich tradition of gemstone appreciation. Understanding their distinct origins, properties, and care requirements allows for an informed and lasting connection to these magnificent jewels, ensuring they remain cherished symbols of personal significance.