Peridot Spinel And Sardonyx

Gemstones are more than just sparkly accessories; they hold significant meanings and histories that have captivated humans for centuries. From ancient civilizations to modern times, gemstones have been treasured for their beauty, durability, and metaphysical properties. 

In this blog post, we will explore three unique gems – peridot spinel, and sardonyx – that have recently risen in popularity among jewelry enthusiasts. Each with its distinct characteristics and fascinating stories behind them, these gemstones will surely leave you wanting to add them to your collection. 

So let's delve into the mystical world of peridot spinel and sardonyx!

About Birthstone History

Firstly, let's touch upon the concept of birthstones. Birthstones are gemstones that correspond to a person's birth month, with each month being represented by one or more gems. 

This tradition dates back to ancient times and has been associated with various beliefs and superstitions. In modern times, birthstones have become popular as personal and meaningful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. 

August has the unique distinction of having three birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.

Peridot, Spinel And Sardonyx

Next up, take a closer look at the three birthstones for August – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx. While they all share the same month, these gems are vastly different in terms of appearance and composition.

1. Peridot Birthstone

First, we have peridot, a vibrant green gemstone that is believed to ward off negativity and bring good luck to its wearer. It is often referred to as the "evening emerald" due to its deep green color that remains visible even in low light. 

August Month’s Peridot Birthstone History

Peridot, also known as the "gem of the sun," has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians were some of the first to treasure this gemstone, mining it on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea over 3,500 years ago. 

They believed peridot had protective powers, especially against the terrors of the night. Throughout history, peridot has also been associated with Hawaiian legends, where it was considered the Tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes. 

During the medieval period, peridot was often used in church decorations, symbolizing purity and morality.

Closer Look at Peridot Meaning

The meaning of peridot is deeply rooted in its vibrant green hue, symbolizing growth, renewal, and healing. This stunning gemstone is believed to bring about positive energy, reduce stress, and enhance personal relationships. 

Many consider peridot to be a stone of compassion, aiding in emotional balance and clarity. Its bright green color is thought to inspire creativity and attract wealth and prosperity. 

Wearing peridot jewelry is said to protect one from negative emotions like jealousy and anger, promoting a happier and more harmonious life.

Where is Peridot Found

Peridot is primarily found in regions with volcanic activity, as it forms deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. Major sources of this gemstone include the United States (particularly Arizona), China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. 

One of the most notable sources of high-quality peridot is the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, which produces stones with a rich, vibrant green color. Other significant deposits have been discovered in Tanzania, Vietnam, and Norway, each offering unique variations in the gemstone's hue and clarity.

Peridot Birthstone Care and Cleaning

Maintaining the vibrant hue and brilliance of your peridot gemstone requires proper care and cleaning methods. Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it fairly durable, but still susceptible to scratches and abrasions. 

When cleaning peridot, avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners as the high heat and vibrations can cause the stone to crack. Instead, clean your peridot jewelry with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Gently scrub the stone, ensuring you reach all crevices, and rinse thoroughly. After rinsing, dry your peridot with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent any water spots.

To preserve your peridot's pristine condition, store it separately from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires that could scratch its surface. Use a jewelry box with individual compartments or wrap it in a soft cloth. 

Mystical and Healing Properties for Peridot

Peridot is not just admired for its beauty; it is also cherished for its mystical and healing properties. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, many believe that wearing peridot can bring about positive changes in one's life. 

Here are some of the most common mystical and healing properties associated with this August birthstone:

• Promotes peace and harmony: Peridot is believed to help calm anger, reduce stress, and promote peace and harmony within oneself.
• Enhances relationships: This gemstone is said to attract love and friendship, strengthening existing relationships and promoting new ones.
• Aids in physical healing: Peridot is thought to benefit various physical ailments such as digestive problems, liver issues, and eye disorders.
• Attracts success and prosperity: Many believe that wearing a peridot can bring abundance and good fortune in all aspects of life. 
• Transformation and spiritual growth: Peridot is said to assist in personal transformation and spiritual growth, making it a popular gemstone among those seeking change and self-improvement.

As with any gemstone, the true meaning and significance of peridot can vary from person to person. But one thing is for sure – this August birthstone has captured the hearts of many with its unique beauty and powerful symbolism. 

Whether you wear peridot as a lucky charm or simply for its aesthetic appeal, there's no denying the special connection between this gemstone and the month of August.  

2. Birthstone of August: Spinel gem

Spinel is a lesser-known gemstone that comes in a variety of colors such as red, pink, purple, blue, and black. It is known for its durability and brilliance, often being mistaken for other precious gems like rubies or sapphires.

History and Origins of Spinel

Spinel has a long-standing history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks who treasured the gemstone for its vibrant hues. Many famous "rubies" throughout history were later identified as spinels due to their striking similarities in appearance. 

The name spinel is derived from the a Latin word "spinella," which means little thorn, referring to its pointed crystal structure. This gemstone was also popular in the Middle Ages, often worn by royalty and clergy as a symbol of wealth and power.

Where is Spinel Found

Spinel can be found in various locations around the world, with significant deposits discovered in Myanmar (formerly Burma), Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. In recent years, spinel has gained popularity among jewelry designers due to its unique color variations and durability compared to other precious gemstones.

Spinel Birthstone Care and Cleaning

Due to its high hardness rating of 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is a durable gemstone that requires minimal care. However, it can not be exposed to harmful chemicals or sudden changes in temperature because they can damage its surface. 

To clean spinel jewelry, use warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. It's also advisable to store spinel separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches or abrasions.

Mystical and Healing Properties for Spinel

Spinel is not only admired for its beauty but also believed to possess mystical and healing properties. Here are some of the most common beliefs associated with this August birthstone:

• Promotes vitality: Spinel is thought to provide energy and promote vitality, making it an ideal gemstone for those feeling lethargic or run-down.
• Encourages self-expression: This gemstone is said to enhance creativity, communication, and self-expression, making it an excellent choice for artists or public speakers.
• Provides protection: Many believe that spinel can offer protection from negative energies and promote a sense of calm and balance in one's life.
• Stimulates spiritual growth: Spinel is thought to help individuals on their spiritual journey by promoting inner wisdom, intuition, and awareness.

Color Variations

Jewelry enthusiasts are drawn to spinel not only for its beauty and symbolism but also for its various color variations. The color variations of spinel are caused by different chemical elements present in its structure. 

• Red Spinel: The most coveted color of spinel is vivid red, often mistaken for ruby. It is caused by traces of chromium and can be found in countries like Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
• Pink Spinel: Pink spinel ranges from pale baby pink to intense magenta hues and gets its shade from iron impurities. It's commonly found in Madagascar, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka.
• Purple Spinel: This stunning hue is caused by traces of cobalt or titanium and can range from soft lavender to deep violet shades. Purple spinel deposits are found in countries such as Tanzania, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
• Blue Spinel: Blue spinel comes in a wide range of tones, from light sky blue to rich royal blue shades. The presence of iron and cobalt gives this gemstone its beautiful blue color, and it's commonly found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
• Black Spinel: Black spinel is a unique and rare color variety that gets its deep hue from iron or titanium impurities. It is often found as small inclusions in other gemstones such as ruby and sapphire.
• Orange Spinel: This vibrant color is caused by the presence of iron, and it can range from soft peach to intense sunset orange shades. Orange spinel deposits are found in countries like Tanzania, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
• Green Spinel: Though less common, green spinel offers a unique and captivating color that ranges from pale sage to deep emerald tones. The green hue is caused by traces of iron and other mineral impurities within the crystal structure. 
• Brown Spinel: Brown spinel exhibits a warm, earthy hue that varies from light tan to dark chocolate brown. This color is the result of iron impurities within the gemstone. Lavender Spinel:  
• Lavender Spinel: With its soft pastel shades ranging from light lilac to muted violet, is a captivating and elegant gemstone. The delicate lavender color is typically caused by the presence of cobalt or titanium. 

• Gray Spinel: Gray spinel stands out with its sophisticated and versatile color palette, which can range from light silvery tones to deep slate hues. The gray color is primarily due to iron and other mineral impurities. Sources of gray spinel include Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.  

Spinel, with its rich history, mystical properties, and stunning color variations, makes for an excellent choice for both jewelry enthusiasts and those looking for a unique birthstone. With proper care and cleaning, your spinel jewelry will continue to shine for generations to come. 

3. Sardonyx Gemstone As August Birthstone

Last but not least, sardonyx is also considered an alternative birthstone for August. Sardonyx is a variety of chalcedony, which is a type of quartz, and it typically exhibits alternating bands of brownish-red and white or black layers. 

Sardonyx Birthstone History

Sardonyx has been cherished for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. It was particularly popular in ancient Rome, where it was used to make seal rings and cameos, often depicting gods and important figures. 

Sardonyx was also revered by the ancient Egyptians, who believed it could protect the wearer from harm and bring courage. In the Middle Ages, warriors wore sardonyx into battle, believing it would grant them strength and victory. This gemstone’s rich history has contributed to its reputation as a protective and empowering stone, making it a meaningful choice for those born in August.

Sardonyx Origins

The name "sardonyx" is derived from the Greek words "sard," referring to a reddish-brown variety of carnelian, and "onyx," which means claw or fingernail, alluding to its banded appearance. Sardonyx forms in volcanic and metamorphic rocks and major deposits can be found in countries such as India, Brazil, Germany, the USA, and Madagascar. 

The most prized sardonyx originates from India, known for its deep, rich colors and striking contrast in banding. Sardonyx's unique formation process and varied origins contribute to its distinct and beautiful appearance.

Types of Sardonyx

Sardonyx is primarily recognized for its distinctive layered bands, which can range in color from white to various shades of red and brown. The most common types of sardonyx include:

• Red Sardonyx: Exhibits alternating bands of deep red and white, often used in intricate carvings and cameos.
• Black Sardonyx: Displays starkly contrasting black and white layers, creating a dramatic and eye-catching effect.
• Blue Sardonyx: Blue sardonyx is a rare variety featuring alternating bands of serene blue and white. Its soothing colors make it a unique and desirable choice for distinctive jewelry pieces.

• White Sardonyx:  White sardonyx showcases elegant layers of white and often pale grey bands. This subtle and sophisticated variety is favored for its understated beauty and versatility in designs.

• Carnelian Sardonyx: Carnelian sardonyx, with its warm hues and vibrant red and white bands, is a striking variety. It is often used in bold and eye-catching jewelry creations, cherished for its vivid contrast.

Where is Sardonyx found?

Sardonyx is primarily found in various regions worldwide that are known for their rich mineral deposits. Major sources include countries such as Brazil, India, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. 

In the US, particularly notable locations include the states of Oregon and Arizona. These areas provide the right geological conditions for the formation of sardonyx, ensuring a steady supply of this beautifully banded stone.

Peridot Spinel And Sardonyx - Which Is The Best?

We have gone through the properties, origins, and types of peridot, spinel, and sardonyx gemstones. Each has its unique characteristics and symbolism, making them all excellent choices for August birthstones. 

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on personal preferences and style. Peridot is known for its vibrant green color and connection to nature while spinel offers a range of captivating hues from red to gray. Sardonyx has a rich history and comes in various colors, making it a versatile option for jewelry designs.

In terms of durability, sardonyx is considered the most durable out of the three gemstones due to its hardness level on the Mohs scale. However, with proper care and handling, all three gemstones can last for generations. 

In the end, it is important to choose a birthstone that speaks to you and holds personal significance. Whichever gemstone you choose, peridot, spinel, or sardonyx, it will make for a meaningful and beautiful addition to your jewelry collection.  

Conclusion

In conclusion, peridot spinel and sardonyx are all excellent choices for August birthstones. Each gemstone has its unique characteristics and history, making them meaningful and beautiful options for those born in this month. 

Whether you prefer the vibrant green of peridot, the range of colors in spinel, or the rich history and versatility of sardonyx, there is a perfect birthstone waiting for you. So embrace your birthstone and wear it with pride! 

Remember to properly care for your gemstone jewelry to ensure it remains stunning for years to come. Now go out there and rock your August birthstone!