August is a unique month in the birthstone calendar, offering not one, but three distinct official gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This abundance of choice provides those born in the eighth month of the year with a diverse palette of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. While peridot is often cited as the primary or modern birthstone, the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx reflects a rich tradition that spans millennia, from ancient talismans to contemporary fine jewelry. Each stone tells a different story—from the volcanic origins of peridot to the banded fortitude of sardonyx and the rediscovered brilliance of spinel. Together, they represent a celebration of summer's vibrant energy, offering options that range from the soothing greens of an olive grove to the fiery reds of a sunset and the rhythmic stripes of ancient chalcedony.
The official recognition of three birthstones for August is a relatively modern development, designed to provide consumers with more options in terms of color, availability, and price. The traditional and original August birthstone is sardonyx, a variety of banded chalcedony. Peridot was added as the primary modern birthstone in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Organization (now Jewelers of America), a list that has been periodically updated. Spinel was officially added as a third option in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), acknowledging its growing popularity and historical significance. This evolution ensures that the August birthstone remains relevant and accessible, allowing individuals to choose a gem that truly resonates with their personal style and values.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot, the vibrant green variety of the mineral olivine, is the most well-known of the August birthstones. Its name is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem," or possibly from the Greek word peridona, meaning "giving plenty." This etymology is fitting, as the gem has long been associated with prosperity, good fortune, and light. Its color ranges from yellowish-green to olive green, caused by the presence of iron in its chemical composition. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot is rarely treated or enhanced, as its color is considered a natural and inherent quality of the stone.
History and Lore
Peridot has a long and storied history, often being confused with other green gems like emerald and topaz. The oldest recorded source of peridot is the Egyptian island of Zabargad (also known as Topazios) in the Red Sea. Ancient Egyptians mined this gem for thousands of years and revered it as "the gem of the sun." They believed it protected its wearer from evil spirits and brought light and warmth, making it a powerful talisman. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous collection of emeralds may have actually been peridot.
This confusion with emeralds continued for centuries. 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. This misidentification highlights peridot's beauty and value, which allowed it to stand in for one of the world's most prized gemstones.
Geological Formation and Sources
One of peridot's most fascinating characteristics is its origin. It is one of the few gemstones formed deep within the Earth's mantle, under extreme heat and pressure. These gems are then brought to the surface by volcanic activity, which is why they are often found in volcanic rock. Incredibly, some peridot has even been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth from outer space, making it a truly cosmic gem.
Today, peridot is mined in various locations around the world, including China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. While not extremely rare, high-quality peridot with an intense green color and few inclusions is highly sought after and valuable.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a relatively hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine (Magnesium Iron Silicate) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Color | Yellowish-green to olive green |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
Peridot has no cleavage, which means it is not prone to splitting along flat planes, making it a durable choice for jewelry that may be subject to daily wear. However, its hardness of 6.5 to 7 means it can still be scratched by harder stones like sapphire or diamond. Care should be taken to avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures, and it is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Historically, peridot was believed to possess protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and nightmares. Ancient cultures associated it with the sun, believing it could dispel darkness and fear. In modern metaphysical beliefs, peridot is linked to emotional healing, growth, and renewal. It is thought to alleviate stress, promote a sense of well-being, and invite abundance and prosperity into the wearer's life. Its connection to the heart chakra makes it a popular stone for fostering love and harmony in relationships.
Spinel: The Underrated Sparkler
For centuries, spinel was the unsung hero of the gem world, often mistaken for more famous stones like ruby and sapphire. It is only in recent times that spinel has been appreciated for its own distinct beauty and brilliance. As a modern addition to the August birthstone list, it offers a dazzling array of colors and an exceptional sparkle that rivals any precious gem.
History and Lore
Spinel’s history is marked by case of mistaken identity. The most famous example is the "Black Prince's Ruby," a massive red spinel that is part of the British Crown Jewels. For centuries, it was believed to be a ruby. Similarly, the "Timur Ruby," another large red spinel, was also misidentified. These historical gems demonstrate that spinel can be of immense size and quality, worthy of royal collections.
Due to this long history of confusion, spinel was often undervalued. However, gemologists now recognize it as a distinct mineral with its own unique properties. Its addition as an official August birthstone in 2016 was a nod to its growing recognition and its value as a beautiful and durable alternative to ruby.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a magnesium aluminium oxide with a cubic crystal system. It forms under high-temperature and low-pressure conditions, often in metamorphic rocks and alluvial deposits. Its chemical simplicity is one reason for its durability and wide range of colors, which are caused by trace elements like iron, chromium, and cobalt.
Major sources of spinel include Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, which are known for producing high-quality red and pink spinels. Other sources include Thailand, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Russia. The gem is found in a variety of colors, including vibrant reds, pinks, oranges, purples, blues, and even blacks.
Gemological Properties
Spinel is prized for its brilliance and durability, making it an excellent choice for all types of jewelry.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Spinel (Magnesium Aluminium Oxide) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 8 |
| Color | Red, pink, orange, purple, blue, green, black |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Crystal System | Cubic |
With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is harder than quartz and feldspar, and more resistant to scratching than peridot. It has no cleavage, making it tough and resilient. It is generally free of inclusions, but when inclusions are present, they can create interesting visual effects. For example, "star spinel" exhibits asterism, and "cat's-eye spinel" shows chatoyancy. Cleaning spinel is straightforward; it is stable under normal conditions and can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Spinel is associated with renewal, vitality, and revitalizing energy. It is believed to help overcome lethargy and provide a boost of physical and mental energy. Some traditions hold that spinel can help in the attainment of goals and the realization of dreams. Its vibrant colors are said to inspire passion and creativity, while its clarity promotes clarity of thought and spiritual insight. For those born in August, spinel is thought to be a stone of hope and rejuvenation.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Guardian
Sardonyx is the original and traditional birthstone for August, with a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. This gem is a variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz, and is characterized by its distinctive bands of reddish-brown (sard) and white or black (onyx). Its striking appearance and historical significance make it a meaningful choice for those seeking a connection to ancient traditions.
History and Lore
Sardonyx has been used for centuries for cameos and intaglios, where its banded layers are carved to create intricate designs and seals. Its use as a protective stone is well-documented in ancient Rome, where soldiers wore sardonyx amulets engraved with images of Mars, the god of war, believing it would grant them courage and protect them in battle. It was also used as a seal stone for important documents, as wax would not stick to its smooth surface.
In the Middle Ages, sardonyx was associated with the virtue of steadfastness and was used in religious rings and jewelry. It was believed to promote happy marriage and bring stability to relationships. Its long history as a talisman for strength and protection has cemented its place as a powerful and meaningful gemstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sardonyx is formed when bands of sard and onyx, both varieties of chalcedony, grow together in parallel layers. The different colors are due to variations in the iron oxide content within the silica solution during its formation. This process occurs in volcanic rock cavities, where silica-rich fluids deposit layers over long periods.
Historically, the primary sources of sardonyx were India, where the stone was mined and carved into intricate cameos. Today, it is also found in Brazil, Germany, and the United States. The quality of sardonyx is judged by the sharpness and contrast of its bands and the uniformity of its color.
Gemological Properties
Sardonyx is valued for its durability and unique appearance.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Chalcedony (Microcrystalline Quartz) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7 |
| Color | Bands of reddish-brown, white, and black |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
With a hardness of 7, sardonyx is durable enough for everyday wear, though it can be scratched by stones of higher hardness. It has no cleavage, making it suitable for carving and use in rings and other jewelry that might receive knocks. It is stable to light and heat and can be cleaned easily with warm, soapy water and a soft brush or ultrasonic cleaner.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The primary symbolism associated with sardonyx is strength, courage, and protection. It is considered a stone of steadfastness and determination, helping one to maintain discipline and focus. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil and bring happiness to marriages. Modern crystal healers associate sardonyx with integrity, virtuous conduct, and the ability to speak the truth. It is often used as a grounding stone, providing a sense of security and stability in one's life.
Care and Cleaning for August Birthstones
Given the different hardness levels and chemical compositions of the three August birthstones, proper care is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity.
Peridot (Hardness 6.5-7): This is the softest of the three stones. While durable enough for occasional wear in rings, it is best suited for pendants and earrings to avoid scratches and impacts. Clean peridot with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme temperature changes, and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Spinel (Hardness 8): As the hardest and most durable of the group, spinel is an excellent choice for all types of jewelry, including rings worn daily. It is stable and resistant to most chemicals. Clean spinel with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It can also be safely cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner.
Sardonyx (Hardness 7): Sardonyx is also quite durable and suitable for all jewelry types. It is stable and can withstand normal cleaning methods. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, an ultrasonic cleaner, or a steam cleaner.
Conclusion
The August birthstone offers a remarkable trio of gems, each with a unique identity and appeal. Peridot, with its solar origins and vibrant green hue, speaks of light, abundance, and protection. Spinel, the brilliant and versatile sparkler, has emerged from the shadows of history to be celebrated for its own dazzling beauty and revitalizing energy. And sardonyx, the ancient and steadfast guardian, provides a tangible link to millennia of human history, symbolizing courage and strength. This diverse selection ensures that anyone born in August can find a gemstone that not only captures their aesthetic preference but also resonates with their personal journey and aspirations. Whether chosen for its historical significance, its geological marvels, or its symbolic power, the August birthstone remains a timeless and meaningful treasure.