August is a month that celebrates three distinct yet equally captivating gemstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. These stones are not only prized for their aesthetic appeal but also for the rich histories and symbolic meanings they carry. While peridot is the most widely recognized of the trio, sardonyx and spinel contribute to the diversity and depth of August’s birthstone legacy. Each gemstone exhibits a unique color palette, influenced by geological composition, historical usage, and cultural significance. This article explores the colors of these August birthstones in detail, examining their origins, symbolism, and the ways they continue to enchant gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
The primary modern birthstone for August is peridot, celebrated for its vibrant lime-green glow. It is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, known for occurring in only one color family, though the shade may vary from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green, depending on the iron content. The name "peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other green gemstones, including emerald and topaz. In fact, many "emeralds" in medieval European cathedral treasures have later been identified as peridots.
Sardonyx, the oldest known August birthstone, has a history stretching back over 4,000 years. It is a composite of two types of chalcedony: sard, which exhibits warm brown to reddish hues, and onyx, which appears as white or black bands. The contrast between these colors gives sardonyx a distinctive and visually striking appearance. Historically, it was used by ancient Romans and Greeks for seals, signet rings, and cameos. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx as a protective charm, believing it would bring them good fortune in battle. In ancient Egypt, sardonyx was also valued for its decorative and symbolic properties, often incorporated into amulets and other personal adornments.
Spinel, the third August birthstone, adds a dynamic and versatile element to the collection. It is known for its brilliant red and blue colors, though it can occur in a wide range of hues. Spinel is 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a durable gem for rings and other jewelry. It is stable in light and chemical environments, making it a low-maintenance gemstone that can be worn and cleaned with ease.
History and Lore
The history of August's birthstones is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and religious practices. Sardonyx, as the most ancient of the three, has been used for millennia. Its use in Roman seals and signet rings was practical; hot wax would not stick to it. The stone’s historical use in religious and ceremonial contexts further underscores its enduring significance. In Jewish and Christian traditions, sardonyx is believed to have been one of the stones on the High Priest’s breastplate, reinforcing its association with divine authority and spiritual protection.
Peridot’s history is equally fascinating. Known for millennia, peridot has been mistaken for emeralds throughout history. Many historical "emeralds" in European cathedrals were later identified as peridots. The gemstone is often found in the lava fields of Hawaii, where locals call the naturally lustrous gems "spirit polished." Peridot is also mined in the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, which is a significant source of this gemstone.
Spinel’s history is marked by centuries of confusion with other gemstones. For a long time, spinel was mistaken for ruby, most famously the "Black Prince’s Ruby" in the British Imperial State Crown, which is actually a large red spinel. This historical misidentification highlights spinel’s beauty and durability, which rival those of ruby. Spinel has been mined in various locations, including the Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam, where it has been produced since the 1980s in deep red, purple, pink, violet, and violet-blue hues. A 2007 discovery in Tanzania of pinkish and orangy red spinel captivated gem collectors, with mines there also producing purple and blue hues.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of these gemstones forms under distinct geological conditions, leading to their unique appearances and sources.
Peridot is a gem-quality variety of olivine, a mineral that forms deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Major sources include the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, USA; Myanmar; Pakistan; China; and India. It is also famously found in the lava fields of Hawaii. The color of peridot, ranging from lime green to olive to brownish-green, is determined by its iron content.
Sardonyx is a form of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz. It is composed of alternating layers of sard (brownish-red chalcedony) and onyx (black or white chalcedony). These bands form as silica-rich fluids deposit layers in rock cavities over time. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, its historical use suggests it was sourced from regions around the Mediterranean and Middle East.
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl₂O₄) that forms in metamorphic rocks. It can also be found in alluvial deposits. Key sources mentioned include: - Myanmar (Burma): Historically a major source, particularly for red spinel. - Vietnam: The Luc Yen region has produced spinel in deep red, purple, pink, violet, and violet-blue since the 1980s. Vivid blue spinels were found there in the 2000s. - Tanzania: A 2007 discovery yielded pinkish and orangy red spinel, with mines also producing purple and blue hues. - Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Cambodia: Also known for spinel production.
The following table summarizes the primary sources for each August birthstone as per the provided information:
| Gemstone | Primary Sources (from SOURCES) |
|---|---|
| Peridot | USA (Arizona, Hawaii), Myanmar, Pakistan, China, India |
| Sardonyx | Historical sources from Mediterranean and Middle East regions (specific modern mines not detailed) |
| Spinel | Myanmar, Vietnam (Luc Yen), Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia |
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of these stones is crucial for identification, care, and appreciation.
Peridot: - Mineral Group: Olivine - Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7 - Colors: Lime green, olive green, yellowish green (varies with iron content) - Chemical Formula: (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ - Crystal System: Orthorhombic - Refractive Index: Approximately 1.65 to 1.69 - Specific Gravity: 3.27 to 4.37 - Durability: Good, but can be prone to chipping due to poor cleavage. It is best suited for jewelry that is not subjected to hard knocks.
Sardonyx: - Mineral Group: Chalcedony (Quartz) - Mohs Hardness: 7 - Colors: Bands of brownish-red to brown to dark orange (sard) with white or black layers (onyx) - Chemical Formula: SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) - Crystal System: Trigonal (microcrystalline) - Refractive Index: Approximately 1.53 to 1.54 - Specific Gravity: 2.58 to 2.64 - Durability: Good hardness and toughness, making it suitable for various jewelry types, especially cameos and intaglios.
Spinel: - Mineral Group: Spinel - Mohs Hardness: 8 - Colors: Wide range including red, blue, pink, purple, violet, black, and colorless. The most prized are the vivid reds ("spinel ruby") and blues. - Chemical Formula: MgAl₂O₄ - Crystal System: Cubic - Refractive Index: Approximately 1.71 to 1.73 - Specific Gravity: 3.58 to 3.61 - Durability: Excellent. Its hardness of 8 and lack of cleavage make it very durable and ideal for all types of jewelry, including rings. It is stable in light and chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of these gemstones carries a wealth of symbolic meaning and metaphysical beliefs, often tied to their color and historical use.
Peridot is strongly associated with positive energy and well-being. As the primary August birthstone, it is believed to bring good luck, peace, and success to those born in this month. Its vibrant green color is linked to prosperity, clarity, and protection from negativity. In Indian astrology, it is sometimes worn for Mercury-related benefits. Peridot aligns with the zodiac signs of Leo (July 23 – August 22) and Virgo (August 23 – September 22), enhancing Leo’s confidence and Virgo’s mental clarity. It is also associated with the Sun and the elements of Fire (Leo) and Earth (Virgo).
Sardonyx, with its long history of use as a protective charm, is believed to offer security and strength. Roman soldiers wore it for good fortune in battle, and its association with the High Priest’s breastplate lends it an aura of divine authority and spiritual protection. Its banded appearance, contrasting light and dark layers, symbolizes the balance between opposites, making it a stone of harmony and grounding.
Spinel is often associated with revitalization and energy. Its brilliant colors are thought to inspire passion and creativity. Historically mistaken for ruby, it shares some of ruby’s symbolism of vitality and life force. As a durable gem, it is also seen as a stone of resilience and endurance. Its wide color range allows it to symbolize various emotions and energies, from the passion of red spinel to the calm of blue spinel.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care ensures that these gemstones retain their beauty for generations. Their different hardness and durability characteristics dictate the best cleaning methods.
Peridot (Mohs 6.5-7): Due to its moderate hardness and potential for chipping, peridot should be handled with care. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, especially if the stone has inclusions or fractures, as the vibrations could cause damage. Steam cleaning is also not recommended. Store peridot jewelry separately to prevent scratches from harder gems.
Sardonyx (Mohs 7): As a member of the quartz family, sardonyx is relatively durable. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for sardonyx, provided the stone is not fractured. Its toughness makes it suitable for everyday wear.
Spinel (Mohs 8): Spinel is one of the most durable gemstones. It can be cleaned using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, but it is important to check for fractures or inclusions that could be damaged by these methods. Warm soapy water with a soft brush is always a safe alternative. Spinel is stable in light and chemical environments, making it a low-maintenance gemstone. However, high heat can cause some colors to fade, so it should be kept away from extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a remarkable spectrum of color, history, and meaning. Peridot, with its warm yellow-green hues, is the most widely recognized of the three and is often associated with abundance, prosperity, and positivity. Sardonyx, with its banded appearance, has a long and storied history in ancient traditions and religious practices, making it a powerful and meaningful stone. Spinel, with its brilliant red and blue colors, adds a dynamic and versatile element to the August birthstone roster, offering a durable and vibrant choice for jewelry and personal adornment.
Understanding the colors, history, and properties of these gemstones not only enhances their appreciation but also deepens the connection between the wearer and the stone. Whether chosen for its historical significance, its vibrant color, or its metaphysical properties, each of August’s birthstones carries a unique legacy that continues to captivate and inspire.