August is a unique month in the gemological calendar, distinguished by not one, not two, but three official birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This abundance offers those born in the eighth month a remarkable choice of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. While peridot is known for its brilliant olive-green hue, spinel captivates with a spectrum of colors often mistaken for other precious gems, and sardonyx presents a striking pattern of reddish-brown and white bands. Together, they represent a diverse legacy that spans ancient civilizations, geological wonders, and modern jewelry trends. This article delves into the distinct characteristics of each of August’s birthstones, exploring their geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and their enduring significance as symbols of strength, protection, and beauty.
The Historical Evolution of August's Birthstones
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to birth months has a long and complex history, evolving significantly over centuries. The origins of this practice are often traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred vestment described in the Bible’s Book of Exodus, which was adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones were later associated with the twelve months of the year and the signs of the zodiac, forming the basis for the birthstone lists we know today.
For August, the journey to its modern trio of stones has been particularly dynamic. Sardonyx is the original and most ancient of August’s birthstones, with a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It was prominently featured in ancient Roman and Greek culture, often used for cameos and intaglios due to its distinct banding and relative hardness. Its inclusion in the earliest birthstone lists was unquestioned.
Peridot emerged as a significant gem for the month in later lists. It was recognized as the primary August birthstone in ancient traditions, believed to imbue the wearer with the confident and valorous traits associated with the zodiac sign Leo. The modern era brought further standardization. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) established an official birthstone list to create consistency within the industry. This list designated peridot as the primary August birthstone. Sardonyx remained recognized as a traditional alternative.
The most recent addition to the August family came in 2016. The American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America amended the list to include spinel. This decision was made to acknowledge spinel’s long history, its beauty, and its frequent confusion with other gemstones like ruby. Today, August stands as one of only three months (along with June and December) that offer three or more official birthstones, providing a rich palette for those born in this summer month.
Peridot: The Ancient Gem of the Sun
Peridot, with its signature lime-green glow, is perhaps the most visually recognizable of the August birthstones. It is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, a common mineral in the Earth’s mantle. Its chemical composition is magnesium iron silicate (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. What makes peridot geologically unique is its formation under extreme conditions. Unlike many gems that form in the crust, peridot can be found in hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even in meteorites that have traveled from outer space, making it one of the few gems found extraterrestrially.
Historical Significance and Confusion with Emeralds
Throughout history, peridot has often been mistaken for other precious green gems. Its rich green hue led to confusion with emeralds in many ancient and medieval cultures. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a source that actually produced peridot, was a purported origin for the name "topaz," adding another layer of historical mix-ups. A famous example of this confusion can be found in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings is decorated with 200 carats of gems that were believed for centuries to be emeralds but are, in fact, peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s renowned collection of emeralds may have actually consisted of peridot.
The word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic faridat, meaning "gem." This August birthstone was highly valued in many ancient and medieval cultures. The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad, and it was called the "gem of the sun" by the ancient Egyptians, who believed it protected its wearer from the terrors of the night and brought happiness and strength.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is prized for its vibrant color, which ranges from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow. Its signature olive-green shade is caused by the presence of iron in its chemical structure. While peridot is generally found in smaller sizes, large stones of exceptional quality are rare and highly valued. It is a relatively durable gemstone, making it suitable for various types of jewelry.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Sources | Egypt, Pakistan, Arizona (USA), Myanmar |
Peridot should be cleaned with warm, soapy water. It is sensitive to rapid temperature changes and harsh chemicals, so care should be taken to protect it from damage.
Spinel: The Underappreciated Beauty
Spinel is the newest official August birthstone, added to the list in 2016 to correct a long-standing historical oversight. For centuries, spinel was mistaken for other more famous gemstones, particularly ruby. Some of the world's most famous "rubies," such as the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown and the Timur Ruby, were actually large red spinels. This history of misidentification is a testament to spinel's remarkable beauty and durability.
A Spectrum of Colors
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄) and occurs in a wide array of colors, making it a versatile and fascinating gem. While red is the most sought-after and valuable color, spinel can also be found in vibrant shades of pink, blue, purple, and orange. This color variety is due to the presence of trace elements like chromium, iron, and cobalt. Unlike many other gemstones, spinel is not treated or enhanced in any way, presenting a pure and natural beauty.
Gemological Properties
Spinel is highly regarded by jewelers and gemologists not only for its beauty but also for its excellent wearability. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it quite resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear in rings and other jewelry. It also has good toughness and no cleavage, meaning it is less likely to chip or break upon impact.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Spinel |
| Chemical Formula | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Color | Wide range: red, pink, blue, purple, orange, black, white |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 |
| Crystal System | Cubic |
| Sources | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Vietnam, Tanzania |
Spinel is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. It can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn frequently.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Patterned Gem
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, with a history stretching back to antiquity. It is a variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. Sardonyx is characterized by its distinctive banding, which consists of alternating layers of reddish-brown sard and black or white onyx. These parallel bands create a beautiful and often dramatic pattern that has been prized by carvers and jewelers for millennia.
History and Symbolism
The use of sardonyx dates back more than 4,000 years. It was a favorite stone of the ancient Romans and Greeks, who used it extensively for cameos and intaglios—engraved gemstones used as seals. Its hardness and ability to hold a sharp impression made it ideal for this purpose. Beyond its practical uses, sardonyx was associated with courage, strength, and protection. Roman soldiers would often wear sardonyx amulets into battle, believing it would grant them bravery and shield them from harm.
In religious contexts, sardonyx holds a place of significance. According to the Bible, it was one of the gemstones that formed the foundation of the New Jerusalem. It was also one of the twelve gems on the Breastplate of Aaron, worn by the high priest of the Israelites. This ancient connection solidifies its status as a stone of spiritual power and divine protection.
Gemological Properties
As a variety of chalcedony, sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for most jewelry applications. Its value is primarily determined by the clarity and contrast of its bands. The most desirable sardonyx features sharp, well-defined bands of color that run parallel to each other.
- Composition: Silicon dioxide (SiO₂), a variety of chalcedony.
- Color: Alternating layers of reddish-brown (sard) and white or black (onyx).
- Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 - 7.
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous (glassy).
Sardonyx is an accessible and relatively inexpensive birthstone, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional gem with historical weight without a high price tag. It is easy to care for, requiring only simple cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the August birthstones carries a rich tapestry of symbolic meaning and metaphysical lore, reflecting the diverse energies of the month.
Peridot: As the "gem of the sun," peridot is associated with light, warmth, and positivity. It is believed to banish darkness and fear, bringing the wearer happiness, strength, and protection from nightmares. Its connection to the sun also ties it to themes of abundance, regeneration, and vitality. In modern crystal healing, peridot is often used to open the heart to joy and new relationships and to reduce stress and anger.
Spinel: Historically mistaken for ruby, spinel has emerged as a gem of revitalization and renewed energy. It is said to inspire hope, resilience, and joy. The vibrant red spinel is associated with passion and life force, while the calming blue varieties are linked to tranquility and clear communication. Spinel is believed to help overcome lethargy and provide the motivation needed to achieve one’s goals.
Sardonyx: This patterned gem has long been a symbol of strength, courage, and protection. Its bold, parallel bands are thought to provide stability and discipline. In ancient times, it was a talisman for public speakers and warriors, believed to grant eloquence and shield the wearer from harm. Sardonyx is also associated with happy marriages and lasting partnerships, making it a meaningful gift for anniversaries. For those born in August, it serves as a grounding force, encouraging perseverance and integrity.
Conclusion
The three birthstones of August—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a remarkable spectrum of color, history, and meaning. From the luminous green of peridot, a gem forged in the fiery depths of the Earth and even in outer space, to the dazzling array of spinel, a long-misunderstood beauty now celebrated for its own merits, and the ancient, patterned strength of sardonyx, this trio provides a unique gemstone for every personality and preference. Their journeys through history, from the breastplates of high priests to the crowns of emperors and the jewelry of modern connoisseurs, underscore their enduring appeal. For those born in August, these stones are more than just beautiful adornments; they are symbols of the sun's vitality, the courage of a lion, and the resilience that defines the height of summer.