The eighth month of the year, August, is distinguished by a unique duality in its birthstone tradition. While the modern standardization of birthstones by the American National Retail Jewelers Association in 1912 designated Peridot as the primary birthstone, historical and alternative traditions recognize Sardonyx and Spinel as equally significant symbols for those born in this month. This variety offers a spectrum of color and meaning, ranging from the vivid olive greens of a mantle-born gem to the banded strength of ancient warrior talismans.
The gemological landscape of August is defined by two distinct mineralogical families: Peridot, a singular silicate crystal, and Sardonyx, a variety of chalcedony. These stones differ significantly in their geological origins, physical properties, and cultural histories. While Peridot is celebrated for its association with prosperity and its extra-terrestrial origins, Sardonyx carries the weight of Roman history and the symbolism of courage. Understanding these stones requires an exploration of their formation deep within the Earth and the crust, their historical journey from ancient mines to modern jewelry boxes, and the specific care required to maintain their beauty.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot stands as the official modern birthstone for August, renowned for its distinct, consistent hue. Unlike many gemstones that exhibit a range of colors, Peridot is unique in that it occurs only in shades of olive to lime green. This color is not the result of chemical impurities, as is common in other gems, but rather is intrinsic to the mineral’s chemical composition.
Geological Formation and Origins
The formation of Peridot is geologically rare. The provided sources indicate that while most gemstones form in the Earth's crust, Peridot originates deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The sources note that Peridot is one of only two gems (the other being diamond) known to form at these extreme depths, making it a literal piece of the deep Earth.
Historically, the primary source of Peridot was the island of Zabargad, also known as St. John’s Island, located in the Red Sea. This island was the source of high-quality Peridot for thousands of years, supplying the ancient world until the 19th century. Today, Peridot is also mined in other locations, including the United States.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a magnesium iron silicate, with the chemical formula (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. It possesses a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday jewelry, though it requires care to avoid scratching. Its refractive index is relatively high for a non-doubly refractive gemstone, contributing to its brilliance. The sources highlight that Peridot is associated with growth, prosperity, love, loyalty, and protection.
History and Lore
The lore surrounding Peridot is ancient and potent. In Egypt, it was known as the "Gold of the Sun." The Egyptians believed that Peridot had the power to ward off nightmares and evil spirits, often crafting it into amulets. This association with the sun and protection has persisted through various cultures. The etymology of the name "Peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "gem."
Sardonyx: The Warrior’s Stone
Sardonyx serves as the alternative or traditional birthstone for August, offering a stark visual and symbolic contrast to Peridot. It is a variety of onyx, characterized by its distinctive banding.
Composition and Appearance
Sardonyx is composed of alternating layers of sard and onyx. Sard is a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony, while onyx is typically black or white. The juxtaposition of these layers creates a stone with bands of red/orange, white, and black. This banded appearance makes it a favorite for carved cameos and intaglios, a practice popularized by the Romans.
Historical Significance
Sardonyx holds a specific place in Roman history. It was the preferred stone for seals and signet rings. The Romans believed that Sardonyx brought luck and protection. Furthermore, the stone was associated with clear, eloquent communication and was thought to enhance public speaking abilities. The red bands of sard symbolized passion and courage, while the white bands of onyx represented purity and happiness.
Symbolism
The symbolic meaning of Sardonyx is rooted in strength and integrity. It is said to symbolize courage, happiness, and clear communication. For those born in August, particularly under the sign of Leo, Sardonyx represents the fortitude and leadership qualities associated with the zodiac sign.
Spinel: The Third August Gem
While Peridot and Sardonyx are the most commonly cited August birthstones, Spinel is also recognized as a modern alternative. Although the provided sources mention Spinel only briefly, it is historically significant. For centuries, red Spinel was mistaken for Ruby, with famous stones like the "Black Prince's Ruby" actually being Spinel. Its inclusion as a birthstone for August adds to the month's mineralogical diversity, offering a gem that rivals the hardness and brilliance of diamond and ruby.
The August Birth Flowers
No discussion of August birth symbols is complete without mentioning the birth flowers: Gladiolus and Poppy.
Gladiolus
Known as the "sword lily," the Gladiolus derives its name from the Latin word gladius, meaning sword, referring to the shape of its leaves. Native to South Africa but now cultivated globally, the Gladiolus symbolizes strength, moral integrity, and infatuation. In the Victorian era, giving a Gladiolus conveyed sincerity and the romantic message "you pierce my heart." Today, it remains a symbol of strong character and dramatic beauty.
Poppy
The Poppy is the second birth flower for August. While the sources provide less specific detail on the Poppy compared to the Gladiolus, it is generally associated with imagination and eternal sleep. Its vibrant colors complement the green hues of Peridot and the earth tones of Sardonyx.
Care and Cleaning
The durability of August's birthstones dictates how they should be cared for.
Caring for Peridot
With a hardness of 6.5 to 7, Peridot is relatively durable but can be susceptible to scratching by harder gems. It has no cleavage, which is a benefit, but it can be brittle. Cleaning Peridot is straightforward: warm, soapy water and a soft brush are recommended. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but steam cleaning should be avoided due to the risk of thermal shock.
Caring for Sardonyx
Sardonyx, being a variety of chalcedony (quartz), has a hardness of 7. It is durable and suitable for all types of jewelry. It can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is resistant to most chemicals, making it a low-maintenance gemstone suitable for daily wear.
Conclusion
August offers a rich selection of birthstones, dominated by the vibrant green Peridot and the banded Sardonyx. Peridot, with its origins in the Earth's mantle and its history as the "Gold of the Sun," represents growth and protection. Sardonyx, steeped in Roman history, symbolizes courage and clear communication. Together with the sword-like Gladiolus and the delicate Poppy, these stones and flowers provide a comprehensive set of symbols for those born in the eighth month. Whether chosen for its geological rarity or its historical weight, the August birthstone remains a significant and beautiful choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.