For those born in the eighth month of the year, the choice of a birthstone is uniquely abundant. Unlike months with a single designated gem, August offers a trio of distinct and historically rich options: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This variety provides August-born individuals a spectrum of colors, origins, and lore to match their personal style and spiritual inclinations. From the vibrant, lime-green glow of peridot—often associated with the sun—to the deep, banded earthiness of sardonyx, these stones represent the energy, warmth, and strength of summer.
This article serves as a detailed exploration of the three official August birthstones. We will delve into their geological origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and the symbolic meanings that have been attributed to them across cultures and millennia. By examining the unique characteristics of peridot, spinel, and sardonyx, we aim to provide a comprehensive resource for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology seeking to understand the full spectrum of August’s gems.
The Historical Journey of August’s Gems
The history of August’s birthstones is a fascinating narrative of rediscovery, correction, and ancient tradition. The journey to the modern list of three stones reflects a growing understanding of gemology and a desire to offer more choice to consumers.
The Traditional Foundation: Sardonyx
Sardonyx is recognized as the original and traditional birthstone for August, with a history that stretches back more than 4,000 years. This ancient gem, composed of alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a black or white chalcedony), was highly valued by ancient civilizations for its striking bands of color and its perceived protective qualities. Its use in cameos and intaglios dates to antiquity, making it a cornerstone of historical jewelry. The enduring legacy of sardonyx establishes a deep, ancient connection for those born in August.
The "Emerald" Impostor: The Peridot Story
Peridot, with its signature lime-green glow, has been prized for thousands of years, though its identity has often been shrouded in confusion. Historically, peridot was frequently mistaken for other precious green gems, most notably emerald. 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, in fact, peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been comprised of peridot.
This confusion stemmed from peridot’s production in locations associated with other gems. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a source that gave its name to the gemstone topaz, actually produced peridot. The very word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic faridat, meaning "gem." Despite this historical case of mistaken identity, peridot’s status as a significant gem was firmly established in many ancient and medieval cultures.
The Renaissance of Spinel
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone family. For centuries, red spinel was underappreciated, largely because it was mistaken for ruby. The most famous example of this is the "Black Prince's Ruby," a massive red spinel that is part of the British Crown Jewels, which was believed to be a ruby for centuries.
It was not until 2016 that spinel was officially added to the birthstone lists of the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA). This addition was driven by a modern desire to provide consumers with more options, particularly an alternative to the increasingly expensive ruby. The recognition of spinel as a distinct and valuable gem in its own right marks a significant moment in the evolution of birthstone lists, bringing a gem with a royal history into the modern spotlight.
The Evolution of the Official List
The current trio of August birthstones is a result of a deliberate expansion over time. Sardonyx remains the traditional stone. Peridot became the official August birthstone in 1912, as standardized by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America). Spinel was the most recent addition in 2016. This progression was intended to give customers a wider array of choices in terms of color, affordability, and availability, ensuring that every August-born person can find a gem that resonates with them.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
The three August birthstones originate from vastly different geological environments, which accounts for their unique compositions and appearances.
Peridot: A Gem from the Mantle and Beyond
Peridot, the gem variety of the mineral olivine, is known for being formed under extreme conditions. Its chemical formula, (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄, highlights its composition of magnesium and iron silicate. The gem’s distinctive yellowish-green to greenish-yellow color is a direct result of the presence of iron within its crystal structure, a feature that distinguishes it from other green gems that derive their color from trace elements.
Peridot is unique among gemstones for its origins deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is one of the few gems that can be found in hardened lava that has carried it from the Earth's interior to the surface. Even more remarkably, peridot has been discovered in meteorites that traveled from outer space, making it an extraterrestrial mineral as well as a terrestrial one. While the island of Topazios in the Red Sea was a historically significant source, peridot is also mined in other locations, including Pakistan, Arizona, and Myanmar.
Spinel: A Durable Alternative
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄), a mineral known for its exceptional hardness and clarity. For centuries, it was the subject of mistaken identity with ruby, particularly the vivid red varieties. This historical confusion is a testament to spinel’s beauty and durability, which can rival that of ruby. Its recent addition to the official birthstone list has brought renewed attention to its diverse color palette, which includes not only red but also pink, orange, blue, and even black. This variety makes it an appealing choice for modern jewelry design.
Sardonyx: The Banded Beauty
Sardonyx is a variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. Its defining characteristic is its alternating layers of sard (a reddish-brown variety of onyx) and onyx (a white or black variety). This banding gives the stone its distinctive, earthy appearance. As a form of quartz, sardonyx has a hardness suitable for jewelry and has been carved into cameos and intaglios for millennia. Its formation occurs in volcanic and metamorphic rock environments, where silica-rich fluids deposit layers over time.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of these gems is essential for gemologists, jewelers, and buyers. Each stone has a unique profile that affects its durability, appearance, and value.
| Property | Peridot | Spinel | Sardonyx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Olivine | Spinel | Chalcedony (Quartz) |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | MgAl₂O₄ | SiO₂ (with iron oxide impurities) |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 | 8 | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Cubic | Trigonal (microcrystalline) |
| Typical Colors | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | Red, pink, orange, blue, black | Bands of red, brown, white, and orange |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Transparent to translucent | Translucent to opaque |
Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it durable enough for most jewelry, but it can be susceptible to scratching if not handled with care. Its color is determined solely by its iron content, resulting in its characteristic green hues.
Spinel is significantly harder, with a Mohs hardness of 8. This makes it an exceptionally durable gemstone, resistant to scratching and ideal for rings and other pieces that may encounter daily wear. Its cubic crystal system and lack of pleochroism (showing different colors from different angles) make it a favorite among gem cutters.
Sardonyx, as a variety of quartz, has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. Its value and appearance are determined by the sharpness, contrast, and regularity of its bands. High-quality sardonyx will have distinct, parallel bands of alternating colors that are straight and evenly spaced.
Symbolism, Lore, and Metaphysical Beliefs
Across history and into modern metaphysical practices, each of the August birthstones carries a weight of meaning and symbolic power.
Peridot: The Stone of the Sun
Ancient traditions held that peridot was a powerful talisman. It was believed to be gifted by nature to protect against nightmares, bring the wearer happiness, and instill strength. Its vibrant green color, reminiscent of summer foliage, has long been associated with light, vitality, and renewal. In modern crystal healing, peridot is often linked to the Heart Chakra, believed to support emotional healing, open the heart to love, and foster feelings of joy and abundance. It is seen as a bright, uplifting stone that can boost mood and confidence.
Spinel: The Stone of Renewal
Spinel’s recent rise in prominence has not diminished its historical significance. It is often associated with high energy, renewal, and inspiration. Its vibrant colors are thought to invigorate the spirit and restore vitality. For those seeking to overcome difficult periods, spinel is believed to offer encouragement and hope. It is also considered a grounding stone, helping to inspire new ideas and perspectives. The royal history of spinel, with its long-standing presence in crown jewels, lends it an air of regality and power.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Strength and Protection
As the most ancient of the August stones, sardonyx is deeply connected to themes of stability, strength, and protection. Its earthy, banded appearance is symbolic of a strong foundation. Historically, it was worn as a protective amulet by warriors and orators, who believed it bestowed courage and eloquence. In modern metaphysical beliefs, sardonyx is considered a deeply grounding stone that supports stable relationships and provides a sense of security. It is the ideal choice for those seeking a gem that tells a story of endurance and steadfastness.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. The differing hardness and characteristics of the August birthstones require specific attention.
Peridot (Mohs 6.5-7): Due to its moderate hardness, peridot can be scratched by harder gems. It is best to store it separately from other jewelry. To clean peridot, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone or cause fractures in included gems.
Spinel (Mohs 8): As a very hard and durable gem, spinel is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, a soft brush, and an ultrasonic cleaner. However, as with any fine gem, it is wise to avoid sudden temperature changes.
Sardonyx (Mohs 6.5-7): Like peridot, sardonyx should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Its banding can sometimes hide dirt, so gentle scrubbing is recommended. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could dull the stone’s polished surface.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a remarkable diversity of choice, color, and history. Peridot provides a vibrant, sun-kissed green with a unique geological origin, symbolizing joy and abundance. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, now stands on its own as a durable and versatile gem, representing renewal and vitality. Sardonyx, the traditional anchor of the month, brings a sense of ancient strength, protection, and earthy stability.
This rich selection ensures that every individual born in August can select a stone that not only complements their aesthetic but also connects them to a legacy of geological wonder and human belief. Whether drawn to the uplifting energy of peridot, the royal sparkle of spinel, or the grounded history of sardonyx, August-born individuals are truly fortunate to have such a wealth of beautiful and meaningful gems to call their own.