August is a unique month in the gemological calendar, distinguished by not one, but three official birthstones. This abundance offers individuals born in the eighth month of the year a remarkable spectrum of color, history, and symbolism to choose from. The primary August birthstone is the vibrant green Peridot, a gem cherished for its refreshing hue and connections to light and abundance. Spinel, available in a dazzling array of colors from vivid red to soft pink and even cobalt blue, serves as a modern alternative, celebrated for its brilliance and durability. Finally, Sardonyx, with its striking bands of reddish-brown and white, provides an ancient charm, connecting the modern wearer to thousands of years of human history. Together, these three gems—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—represent the full spectrum of summer's energy, offering unique benefits in beauty, healing, and personal expression.
This article will explore the rich tapestry of the August birthstones in detail. We will delve into the history and lore of each gem, tracing their journey from ancient civilizations to their modern status. An examination of their geological origins and primary sources will reveal where these treasures of the Earth are formed and mined. Furthermore, a breakdown of their distinct gemological properties will provide the scientific foundation for their value and appeal. Finally, we will discuss the symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with each stone, concluding with practical advice on how to care for and maintain these precious gems for a lifetime of enjoyment.
History and Lore
The history of the August birthstones is a fascinating tale of evolution, reflecting changing cultural tastes, practical needs, and the discovery of new sources. While many months have a single, long-standing gem association, August’s story is one of accumulation, culminating in a trio of officially recognized stones.
The Ancient Origins of Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the oldest of the three, with a documented history stretching back over 4,000 years. This banded variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz, was the first gem to be associated with the month of August. Ancient civilizations, particularly the Romans, were drawn to its distinctive appearance. The stone’s reddish-brown bands (sard) were believed to capture August's fiery, harvest-time energy, while the contrasting white layers (onyx) symbolized balance and promise. The Romans prized sardonyx for more than just its aesthetic appeal; they carved it into cameos and intaglios for signet rings, believing that the molten wax used for sealing letters would not adhere to its surface. This practical property made it a favorite among officials and merchants. Beyond its utilitarian use, sardonyx was a symbol of courage, strength, and protection. Ancient warriors would often carry sardonyx talismans into battle, believing the stone would bestow upon them the fortitude to face their enemies and protect them from harm.
The Rise of Peridot
While sardonyx held the original claim, Peridot emerged as the more prominent and widely recognized August birthstone over time. Its history is equally ancient and steeped in solar lore. The Egyptians were among the first to mine and revere this gem, calling it the “gem of the sun.” They believed it held the power of the sun god, Ra, and that it could ward off nightmares and evil spirits. Cleopatra, one of history’s most famous figures, was a known admirer of peridot, though much of what she wore was historically mistaken for emeralds. For centuries, the source of these gems was the island of Zabargad (now St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, which produced peridots for centuries.
The stone's journey into the mainstream was solidified in the early 20th century. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) established a standardized list of birthstones to promote commercial sales and provide a clear guide for consumers. Peridot was named the official August birthstone on this list, a status it has maintained ever since. Its vibrant lime-green color was seen as a perfect representation of late summer's lushness and vitality.
The Modern Addition of Spinel
The most recent addition to the August birthstone family is Spinel. For centuries, spinel was the great imposter of the gem world, frequently mistaken for ruby. Some of the world's most famous "rubies," such as the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown and the Timur Ruby, are, in fact, magnificent red spinels. It was not until the 19th century that gemologists developed the tools and knowledge to distinguish spinel from ruby based on its different chemical composition and crystal structure.
Recognizing the need for more variety, affordability, and availability in birthstone options, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) updated their lists. In 2016, spinel was officially added as a third birthstone for August. This decision acknowledged spinel’s own unique beauty, durability, and rich history, providing August-born individuals with a gem that offers the brilliance of a ruby with its own distinct character.
Geological Formation and Sources
The three August birthstones originate from vastly different geological environments, which accounts for their unique properties and appearances.
Peridot: A Gem from the Mantle
Peridot is unique among gemstones as it is one of the few that forms not in the Earth's crust, but deep within the upper mantle. It is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a common component of the Earth's mantle. This deep-earth origin means that peridot is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Most commercial peridot today is sourced from Arizona, Pakistan, and China. The Arizona deposits, located in the San Carlos Apache Reservation, are particularly significant and produce a large portion of the world's supply. Some of the finest specimens have even been found in pallasite meteorites, making them truly out of this world.
Spinel: Formed in Metamorphic Rocks
Spinel is a magnesium aluminium oxide with a cubic crystal structure. It typically forms in the metamorphic rocks of the Earth's crust, often in association with minerals like corundum (ruby and sapphire) and dolomite. The most famous historical source for red spinel is the Badakhshan region of Afghanistan, which produced the large stones that were mistaken for rubies. Today, significant sources of high-quality spinel include Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. Its formation in these environments often results in crystals that, while durable, can contain inclusions that are characteristic of their natural growth.
Sardonyx: A Variety of Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a banded variety of chalcedony, which is itself a microcrystalline form of quartz (silicon dioxide). It forms in layers, with the reddish-brown sard and the white or black onyx alternating. This banding is a result of variations in the silica-rich fluids that deposit the mineral in rock cavities over long periods. Historically, the primary sources for sardonyx were in India, but today it is also found in Brazil, Germany, and the United States. As a form of quartz, it is readily available, making it an accessible and affordable option.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of these gems is crucial for appreciating their value, durability, and suitability for jewelry.
| Gemstone | Mineral | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Refractive Index | Common Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | 6.5 - 7 | 1.65 - 1.69 | Yellow-green, olive green, lime green |
| Spinel | Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | 8 | 1.71 - 1.73 | Red, pink, orange, blue, black, violet |
| Sardonyx | Chalcedony (Quartz) | SiO₂ | 7 | 1.53 - 1.54 | Banded reddish-brown and white |
Peridot
Peridot’s signature color, a vibrant lime green to an olive shade, is due to the presence of iron within its chemical structure. Its hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 6.5 to 7, making it a reasonably durable gem suitable for everyday jewelry like rings and pendants, though it requires some care to avoid scratches and chipping. It is strongly birefringent, a property that can sometimes be observed by a trained gemologist.
Spinel
Spinel is highly regarded for its excellent hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the more durable gemstones for jewelry. It lacks the cleavage planes found in many other gems, meaning it is less prone to breaking when struck. While red is its most famous and popular color, spinel occurs in a remarkably wide range of hues, including the coveted "cobalt blue" and vibrant pinks. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant luster that can rival that of ruby and sapphire.
Sardonyx
As a variety of quartz, sardonyx has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it very durable and resistant to scratching. It is not a transparent gem but is typically translucent to opaque. Its primary visual characteristic is its distinct banding, which is created by alternating layers of sard and onyx. This banding is what made it so popular for carved cameos and intaglios throughout history.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, the August birthstones are rich in symbolism and have long been attributed with various metaphysical powers.
- Peridot: Known as the "gem of the sun," Peridot is associated with light, positivity, and abundance. It is believed to promote growth, prosperity, and renewal. Ancient cultures thought it could ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from nightmares. Today, it is considered a stone of compassion and is said to bring peace, healing, and happiness to its bearer.
- Spinel: Often associated with revitalization, Spinel is believed to breathe new life into the wearer’s body and mind. It is thought to inspire passion and inspire creativity. Red spinel, in particular, is linked to courage and overcoming lethargy, while other colors are associated with calm and clarity.
- Sardonyx: A traditional stone of strength and protection, Sardonyx has been used for centuries as a talisman for courage. It is believed to enhance willpower, integrity, and stamina. In relationships, it is said to promote happiness and stable partnerships, making it a popular stone for wedding rings and gifts.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the brilliance and longevity of any gemstone. Due to their different properties, the three August birthstones require slightly different handling.
- Peridot (Hardness 6.5-7): Peridot is relatively durable but can be scratched by harder gems. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the stone may have inclusions or fractures that could be damaged by sudden temperature changes. Store it separately to prevent contact with harder stones.
- Spinel (Hardness 8): Thanks to its excellent hardness and lack of cleavage, Spinel is quite easy to care for. It can be safely cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner and with warm soapy water. It is a durable choice for all types of jewelry.
- Sardonyx (Hardness 7): As a form of quartz, Sardonyx is very durable. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. It is safe to use in ultrasonic cleaners, though caution is advised if the stone has any fractures.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx—offer a remarkable diversity that reflects the dynamic energy of their associated month. From the ancient, protective power of Sardonyx to the solar brilliance of Peridot and the revitalizing beauty of Spinel, each gem provides a unique connection to history, science, and personal meaning. This trio allows those born in August to select a stone that not only matches their aesthetic preference but also resonates with their personal journey. Whether chosen for its vibrant color, its storied past, or its symbolic strength, an August birthstone is a timeless and meaningful treasure.