For individuals born in August, the calendar offers a rare and generous diversity in birthstone selection. Unlike months tied to a single gem, August claims an official trinity of distinct stones: the vivid green Peridot, the historically significant Sardonyx, and the long-misunderstood Spinel. This variety allows those born in this summer month to choose a gem that resonates with their personal aesthetic and spiritual inclinations. While Peridot has emerged as the primary and most recognized stone, Sardonyx holds the title of the traditional original, and Spinel has recently been added to provide a modern spectrum of color.
The existence of three official birthstones for August is a relatively modern development, driven by the desire to offer consumers more options regarding color, availability, and price. Understanding the distinct characteristics, origins, and lore of each of these gems provides a deeper appreciation for the month of August and the geological wonders it represents.
The Primary Stone: Peridot
Peridot stands as the most prominent of the August birthstones, celebrated for its distinctive lime-green hue. It is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate of magnesium and iron. Unlike many gemstones that derive their color from trace impurities, Peridot’s color is an intrinsic part of its chemical composition.
History and Lore
Peridot possesses a rich and often misunderstood history. Throughout antiquity, it was frequently confused with other green stones, most notably emerald. Historical records indicate that the Red Sea island of Topazios, the source of the name "topaz," actually produced Peridot. Furthermore, the 200 carats of gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, long believed to be emeralds, were eventually identified as Peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have been comprised largely of Peridot.
The name "Peridot" is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." In ancient Egypt, it was revered as the "gem of the sun," believed to protect the wearer against nightmares and ward off evil spirits. It was thought to bring the wearer happiness, strength, and protection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is unique among gemstones because it is found not only deep within the Earth’s mantle but also in extraterrestrial sources. It is often brought to the surface by volcanic activity, occurring within the hardened lava that carries it from great depths. Remarkably, Peridot has also been identified in meteorites that traveled from outer space, lending it a cosmic origin story.
Commercial sources for Peridot are primarily located in Arizona, Pakistan, and China. The gem is prized for its natural brightness and generally does not require enhancements to achieve its vivid color.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized by its yellowish-green to greenish-yellow color palette. The most valued stones display a rich, lime-green hue. It is a relatively hard gemstone, suitable for various types of jewelry, though it requires care due to its susceptibility to chipping if struck with force.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Metaphysically, Peridot is associated with prosperity, good fortune, and peace. It is believed to ward off nightmares and bring the wearer happiness. Its warm, luminous glow is said to possess an uplifting energy, reflecting the vitality of summer.
The Traditional Stone: Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, boasting a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is a variety of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, specifically composed of alternating layers of sard and onyx.
Appearance and History
The defining characteristic of Sardonyx is its striking appearance, featuring bold bands of reddish-brown (sard) and white or black (onyx). This banded pattern makes it a distinctive choice for cameos and intaglios, where the contrasting layers are utilized to create artistic relief designs.
Historically, Sardonyx was highly valued for its durability and visual appeal. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations where it was carved into seals and amulets.
Symbolism
Sardonyx is traditionally associated with courage, strength, and protection. It was believed to bring stability and discipline to the wearer, making it a popular stone for warriors and orators in ancient times. It represents the fortitude and endurance often associated with the summer season.
The Modern Addition: Spinel
Spinel is the newest addition to the August birthstone family, officially recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) in 2016. Its inclusion was intended to provide consumers with a wider range of colors and a more affordable alternative to other gems.
Historical Confusion
For centuries, Spinel was underappreciated, largely because it was mistaken for other gemstones. Red Spinel, in particular, was frequently confused with ruby. Many famous "rubies" throughout history, such as the Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown, were eventually identified as large Spinel crystals. It is only in recent times that Spinel has been appreciated as a distinct and valuable gem in its own right.
Gemological Properties and Colors
Spinel offers a versatility of color that rivals almost any other gemstone. While the vivid red variety is the most popular and historically significant, Spinel also occurs in pink, orange, blue, and black. This range of colors makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a specific hue for their jewelry.
Symbolism
Spinel is associated with renewal and vitality. Its sparkling brilliance and variety of colors reflect a sense of energy and revitalization, fitting for a birthstone representing the height of summer.
The History of August's Multiple Stones
The evolution of August’s birthstones reflects a changing marketplace and a desire for inclusivity. Sardonyx served as the traditional stone for millennia. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized the birthstone list, designating Peridot as the official August birthstone. This decision likely stemmed from Peridot’s rising popularity and its distinct, vibrant color.
However, to address consumer demand for more variety, color options, and affordability, Spinel was added to the official list in 2016. This modernization ensures that every August-born individual can find a stone that suits their taste, whether they prefer the classic green of Peridot, the banded strength of Sardonyx, or the sparkling versatility of Spinel.
Care and Cleaning
Given the distinct physical properties of the three August stones, specific care is required to maintain their beauty.
Peridot has a hardness of approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. While durable enough for daily wear, it is susceptible to chipping due to somewhat poor toughness. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally not recommended.
Sardonyx, being a variety of quartz (Mohs hardness 7), is quite durable and resistant to scratching. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is stable against light and heat but can be damaged by sharp blows.
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it quite durable and resistant to scratching. It is generally stable under light and heat and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, making it a low-maintenance option.
Conclusion
August offers a unique trifecta of birthstones, each with its own geological origin, historical narrative, and aesthetic appeal. Peridot, the "gem of the sun," provides a splash of vibrant green derived from the Earth's deep mantle and even the cosmos. Sardonyx, the ancient banded stone, offers a connection to thousands of years of human history and artistry. Spinel, the modern inclusion, brings a spectrum of colors and corrects centuries of gemological misidentification. Together, these three stones provide a comprehensive palette of beauty and meaning, ensuring that those born in August have a rich selection of gems to celebrate their birth.