August is unique in the realm of birthstones, offering not one, but three distinct gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This abundance provides those born in the eighth month with a remarkable spectrum of choice, from the vibrant green of peridot to the fiery reds of spinel and the earthy bands of sardonyx. Each stone carries its own rich history, geological origin, and symbolic meaning, reflecting the diverse energy of summer. The modern selection of these three gems for August was formalized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, but their individual stories stretch back millennia, some to the earliest records of human civilization. This article delves into the gemological properties, historical significance, and metaphysical beliefs associated with each of August's birthstones, providing a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month.
History and Lore
The historical journey of each August birthstone is a testament to their enduring value and the human fascination with these natural treasures.
Peridot has been mistaken for other gems throughout history, a testament to its captivating green hue. The name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." Historically, many peridots were confused with emeralds. For instance, the 200-carat gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany's Cologne Cathedral were long believed to be emeralds but are now identified as peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection may have actually been composed of peridot. The gem was also historically sourced from the Red Sea island of Topazios, a location that contributed to the confusion with topaz. Peridot was believed to ward off nightmares and bring the wearer happiness and strength.
Spinel has a history of being underappreciated, often mistaken for more famous gems. For centuries, red spinel was confused with ruby, leading to some of the world's most famous "rubies" being reclassified. The gem has a royal history, with its vibrant colors being prized by royalty across the globe. Its recent rise in popularity is due to consumers seeking alternatives to ruby, allowing spinel to be appreciated for its own unique properties and beauty.
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, with a history dating back over 4,000 years. As a combination of two types of chalcedony—sard and onyx—it was highly popular in ancient Rome for seals and signet rings. Its layered structure, with bands of brownish-red to dark orange sard alternating with white or black onyx, made it practical for use with hot wax, which would not stick to its surface. This practical application cemented its place in ancient society, where it was also valued for its protective and stabilizing energies.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these gems are as diverse as their appearance, with peridot standing out for its extraterrestrial connections.
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine. Its formation under extreme conditions is unique among birthstones. It can be found in the hardened lava that carries it from deep within Earth's mantle and is also one of the few gems found in meteorites that traveled from outer space. This dual origin story adds to its mystique and appeal. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, its formation in volcanic and extraterrestrial environments is a key geological characteristic.
Spinel is mined in several notable locations. The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam has produced spinel since the 1980s, yielding deep red, purple, pink, violet, and violet-blue stones, with vivid blue spinels discovered in the 2000s. Access to these mines is challenging, requiring a long drive from Hanoi followed by hiking or biking. Another significant source is Tanzania, where a 2007 discovery of pinkish and orangy red spinel captivated gem collectors. Mines in Tanzania also produce purple and blue hues. These sources are known for producing spinel with a natural luster that locals describe as "spirit polished."
Sardonyx is a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, specifically a variety of chalcedony. It is formed by the alternating layers of sard (a brownish-red to brown to dark orange chalcedony) and onyx (typically white or black chalcedony). While the sources do not specify current mining locations, its ancient history of use in Roman seals and signet rings suggests it was readily available in regions around the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of these gems is essential for identification, care, and appreciation.
Peridot is the yellowish green to greenish yellow variety of the mineral olivine. Its color is primarily due to the presence of iron within its crystal structure, which is distinct from most other colored gems that derive their hue from trace elements. This results in a naturally vibrant color ranging from chartreuse to deep olive. Peridot's unique green shade is unlike any other gemstone.
Spinel is prized for its variety of colors, which include red, pink, orange, purple, blue, and black. The most sought-after color is a vivid red, often compared to ruby. On the Mohs scale of hardness, spinel ranks an 8, making it a durable gem suitable for rings and other jewelry that will see daily wear. It is stable when exposed to light and chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but warm soapy water is always a safe alternative, especially if the stone has fractures.
Sardonyx is a composite gem, a combination of two chalcedony varieties. Its defining characteristic is the bold banding, with layers of brownish-red sard alternating with white or black onyx. As a form of quartz, it has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it reasonably durable but more susceptible to scratches than spinel or peridot. Its cryptocrystalline nature gives it a smooth, waxy luster.
Summary of Key Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Mineral Family | Typical Colors | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine | Yellowish green to greenish yellow | Not specified in sources | Color from iron in crystal structure; found in lava and meteorites. |
| Spinel | Spinel | Red, pink, orange, purple, blue, black | 8 | Durable; often mistaken for ruby; stable to light and chemicals. |
| Sardonyx | Chalcedony (Quartz) | Bands of brownish-red, brown, dark orange, white, black | 7 | Cryptocrystalline; layered structure of sard and onyx. |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, each August birthstone carries a wealth of symbolic meaning and is believed to possess specific energetic properties.
Peridot is often associated with positivity, joy, abundance, and confidence. It is considered a "Heart Chakra" crystal, believed to support healing and open the heart to love. Its bright, uplifting energy is said to boost mood and confidence, making it a gem that feels like pure summer energy. It is recommended for releasing negative patterns and fostering emotional balance.
Spinel is viewed as a high-energy stone for renewal, inspiration, and vitality. It is believed to help restore energy, inspire hope, and provide encouragement through difficult times. Its wide range of colors allows for different interpretations, but its core symbolism revolves around renewal and grounding. It is a versatile gem for those seeking inspiration or a fresh start.
Sardonyx is deeply connected to grounding and protection. It is believed to support strength, courage, and stable relationships. As an earthy gem with ancient roots, it carries the energy of stability and endurance. It is often chosen for its protective qualities and for fostering a sense of security and resilience.
Care and Cleaning
Proper maintenance is crucial to preserving the beauty and integrity of any gemstone. The care instructions for August's birthstones vary based on their hardness and structural properties.
Peridot is relatively durable, but specific care instructions are not detailed in the provided sources. As a general rule for harder gems, it is safe to use warm soapy water and a soft brush for cleaning. It is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is typically durable for everyday jewelry. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe, but caution is advised if the stone has any fractures, as these could be exacerbated. Warm soapy water with a soft brush is always a safe and effective method for cleaning. While spinel is stable to light and chemicals, high heat can cause some colors to fade, so it should be kept away from high-temperature environments.
Sardonyx, as a form of chalcedony with a hardness of 7, requires careful handling to avoid scratches. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as the vibrations could potentially damage the stone, especially if there are any inclusions or structural weaknesses. As with all gemstones, it is best to store sardonyx separately from harder stones to prevent abrasion.
Conclusion
The three birthstones for August—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a remarkable diversity in color, history, and meaning. Peridot captivates with its unique green hue from iron in its crystal structure and its connections to both the Earth's mantle and outer space. Spinel dazzles with a wide color palette and a history of being mistaken for ruby, now appreciated for its own durability and vibrant energy. Sardonyx, the original August stone, provides an earthy, grounding presence with its distinctive banding and ancient legacy in Roman seals. Together, they reflect the warmth and strength of summer, providing individuals born in August with a choice that resonates with their personal style, energy, and spirit. Whether chosen for its beauty, its historical significance, or its metaphysical properties, each of these gems serves as a timeless and meaningful connection to the month of August.