August Birthstones - Peridot, Spinel and Sardonyx

Those born in August are lucky to have the choice of three stunning birthstone, Peridot, Spinel and Sardonyx.

PERIDOT,

Peridot is a greenish-yellow to yellowish-green gemstone variety of the mineral olivine. Over the course of history, peridot has been frequently mistaken for other gems, such as topaz and emerald. Interestingly, the Red Sea Island of Topazios, which purportedly gave the name "topaz," actually produced peridot. Furthermore, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany's Cologne Cathedral features 200 carats of gems that were believed to be emeralds but are, in fact, peridot - the August birthstone.

The term "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word "faridat," which means gem. Throughout ancient and medieval cultures, this August birthstone was highly valued. As early as the 2nd century BCE, peridot appeared in priests' JEWELLERY, and later on, it was used in the chalices and churches of medieval Europe. The peridot birthstone has also been utilized for centuries as a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and the "terrors of the night."

Peridot is also the gemstone that celebrates the 16th wedding anniversary.

SPINEL

The Latin word spina, meaning thorn, inspired the name “spinel” due to the shape of its crystals. Spinel, the second August birthstone, exhibits a wide variety of colours including intense red, vibrant pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green.

Throughout history, spinel was often mistaken for other gems. Many famous “rubies,” including the Black Prince’s ruby weighing approximately 170 carats, turned out to be spinel. It was not until the 18th century that spinel was clearly differentiated from ruby based on their chemical composition. Today, the Black Prince’s ruby is set in the Imperial State Crown of Great Britain, positioned just above the 317.40ct Cullinan II diamond.

Red spinel, along with other red gems, was believed to be a cure for all kinds of blood loss and inflammatory diseases. These red gems were also thought to promote harmony and relieve anger. Traditionally, this August birthstone is given as a 22nd wedding anniversary gift.

SARDONYX

Sardonyx, one of the August birthstones, is a composite of two types of chalcedony, sard and onyx. The alternating bands of brownish-red to dark orange sard and typically white or black onyx layers create a unique appearance. In ancient Rome, sardonyx was popular for signet rings and seals, as wax would not stick to it. This August birthstone has also been a favoured material for cameo and intaglio carvings for thousands of years due to its banded colours.

Sardonyx is referenced in the Old Testament as one of the stones in the High Priest’s breastplate and is believed to represent the strength of spiritual life. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx rings with carvings of Mars, the god of war, for protection in battle. Today, sardonyx is associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication. It is believed to bring stability to marriages and partnerships.