August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

The Healing Power of Your Birthstones Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

The birthstones of August, Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx are renowned for their close association with ancient Egypt. Those born in August have the privilege of having three birthstones, providing them with many choices. This makes them incredibly fortunate.

Famous for its place of origin, the peridot gemstone is associated with August birthdays. It is found in hardened lava from the Earth’s mantle and forms under extreme conditions, making it highly sought after. The Egyptians considered peridot a protective gemstone and used it to guard the tombs of pharaohs against the evil eye.

August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
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August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx Origin

The August birthstone, peridot, has a fascinating history. Most peridot used in jewelry today is sourced from countries such as China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. However, some peridot arrived on Earth via shooting stars, while others are found in unique locations like Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sand sparkles with a brilliant green hue. The ancient Egyptian island of Zabargad is the earliest recorded source of this birthstone for August. Despite its harsh conditions earning it unfavorable names like “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (snake island), Zabargad produced exquisite peridot that has been highly valued for centuries and remains in demand today.

Spinel is found in several places, including Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Some sources are known for producing spinel of vivid colors, such as hot pink and red spinel from Myanmar, representing different tones and countries. Sri Lanka is a historical Treasure Island for various gem species and varieties, such as sapphire, ruby, and garnet. Spinel is extracted in the southern part of the country, where blue, pink, and purple colors can be found. The lush rolling hills of the Central Highlands and river gravel in the Ratnapura District have been abundant sources for centuries.

Sardonyx can be sourced from various places, with India being notable for its sardonyx that contrasts its different colored layers. Other regions where sardonyx can be found include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. In the past, distinguishing between spinels and rubies was challenging, particularly since they were often found in the same mines. The British State Crown’s large red center has recently been identified as a spinel rather than a ruby. Additionally, some of the finest “rubies” in Indian collections may actually be spinels.

What are August Birthstones?

August is a unique month as it offers three birthstone options, unlike other months with only one. The traditional and modern birthstones for August include peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Sardonyx is the oldest recorded August birthstone and has been mentioned several times in the Bible. It was also one of the precious stones found in the high priest’s breastplate and served as a foundation stone for Jerusalem.

Topaz, a gemstone with a complex history, is considered one of the earliest Biblical birthstones. Some scholars believe that the historical references to topaz actually referred to what we now know as peridot. These two gems are similar in color and may have been interchangeably called topaz.

August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

What’s the Meaning of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx?

The term “Peridot” originates from Arabic and translates to “diamond.” This birthstone for August was highly valued in various ancient societies and was even incorporated into the jewelry of religious leaders as early as the second century BCE. It was also commonly found in churches and vessels throughout ancient Europe. For centuries, people have used peridot as a protective charm to ward off evil spirits. In contrast, “spinel” is derived from the Latin word “spina,” meaning thistle, which refers to the shape of spinel gems.

The second birthstone for August comes in various hues, including rich red, lively pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and slightly blue-green. Sardonyx, the oldest August birthstone, combines two types of chalcedony: sard and onyx. Layers of reddish-brown to dull orange sard alternate with white or black onyx. In ancient times, sardonyx was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings because the wax would not stick to it. The various shades in this August birthstone have made it a popular material for carvings and engravings for centuries.

What Is Your Birthstone Personality?

Those born in August possess the unique trait of having three birthstones associated with their birth month: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot is a stunning green gemstone that forms under extreme conditions and is often brought to Earth by shooting stars traveling vast distances through space. On the other hand, Spinel is a dark red gemstone popular among ancient rulers and queens due to its resemblance to rubies. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, dates back over 4,000 years. These birthstones symbolize strength, vitality, curiosity, and energy. Your radiance and happiness serve as a guiding light to those closest to you.

Birthstone gems are always a wonderful choice, whether searching for a gift for a Leo or Virgo friend or treating yourself to a significant piece. Choosing one of the three August birthstones is a fantastic gift idea, as these gemstones are stunning additions to any collection and make excellent presents. These birthstones have been highly valued since ancient times and are a luxury today. You won’t regret it if you’re lucky enough to acquire one of these exquisite gems.

August Birthstone – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

Stone Has Properties; Which Include:

  • Color: red, orange, pink, purple, blue, black
  • Refractive index: 1.718
  • Birefringence: none
  • Specific gravity: 3.60
  • Mohs Hardness: 8
  • Energy: Projective
  • Element: Fire
  • Planet: Pluto
  • Deities: Hephaestus
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