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August Birthstones: The Mesmerizing Trio of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

Gemstone of The Month

Well, August can be called the month of trios. August is one of the rare months in the world of gemstones since it is represented by three separate birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx. Each of these stones has a unique narrative, significance, and magnetism.
In this blog, we will look into the background, the symbolism, and why these three gemstones are highly valued.

Trio of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
Trio of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx

Peridot: Gem of the Sun

Although people are most familiar with Peridot, August’s official birthstone is a gemstone that dates back thousands of years. Often uniformly green, Peridot has held the connotation of light and the positive in many pieces throughout time. Ancient Egyptian civilizations used to call the Peridot the gem of the sun, which is alleged to shield its owner from any nocturnal evil.

History and Origins

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that only comes in one colour: a subtle shade of green that goes from a yellowish hue to the greenish tint that is characteristic of any sapphire, passing through a grass-like green depending on the quantity of iron in the crystal lattice.

This gemstone has been in use for over 4,500 years, and its first identified origin is from the small volcanic island called Zabargad or St. John’s Island in the Red Sea.

Symbolism and Significance

Peridot is similarly incorporated with attributes of rebirth and reviving, which are relevant due to the stone’s green and fresh shine. It is also said that it is associated with such virtues as the spirit of peace, fortune, joy, and happiness in whoever possesses it. Others think that Peridot can help relieve stress, strengthen self-esteem, and help find the path to eliminating jealousy and anger.

Metaphysical Properties

Regarding the healing properties of crystals, quartz Peridot is associated with the heart chakra; hence, its symbol is love and forgiveness. It is believed to bring tranquillity and harmony within one, thus aiding in treating emotional trauma or eradicating vices.

Spinel: Gem of Multiple Colours

While Spinel is the second birthstone of August, it is rather unknown and unvalued by many. This gemstone is available in reds, pinks, blues, purples, and other shades, which makes it unique.

History and Origins

Over the years, individuals have used Spinel as other gems, especially ruby, and sapphire, even though they are different. Indeed, some of the best-known historical “rubies,” including the Black Prince’s Ruby, now in the British Crown Jewels, are Spinel.

The first occurrence of Spinel dates back over a thousand years, and at present, primary deposits are available in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, and the newly discovered source, Tanzania. The gemstone has a better demand and acceptance in the market based on its beauty.

Symbolism and Significance

Hence, Spinel is considered to be a reborn stone that offers energy and new hope to its users. It has a wide colour range, and hence, different colours may have different meanings as far as portraying these mixed feelings is concerned. For instance, red Spinel is regarded as embracing passion and vigour; at the same time, blue Spinel is traditionally connected with sleep and rest.

Metaphysical Properties

It is said that Spinel is helpful for people in trials. This stone is supposed to strengthen the owner’s spirit, give courage, and teach patience. It is also believed to have a protective quality, help defend the owner from danger, and help build strength.

Sardonyx: The Courageous Clever stone or The Jewel of Protection

Sardonyx is the third and oldest August birthstone used since ancient times. It is a kind of onyx in which layers of sard, a form of chalcedony with a reddish-brown colour, and onyx are present.

History and Origins

Sardonyx has been appreciated in many cultures, such as Roman, Greek, and Egyptian, who inlaid it into jewellery, cameos, and seals. It especially enjoyed great popularity among the warriors as they sought to get close to it to make themselves strong and invincible on battlefields.

The stone is found in several regions globally, from India to Brazil and Uruguay. Nonetheless, it has mainly been recognized for its significance in artefacts that embody the history of the early black societies, which used it to carve designs.

Symbolism and Significance

Beneath the visible gem layers, the carving’s inscription of Sardonyx symbolises strength and protection or courage. To some extent, it is used for integrity and virtuous character, which is why those who want to stick to their principles choose this stone. In the past, it was also used to draw friends and the essence of wealth to the site and to protect against evil forces.

Metaphysical Properties

In contemporary crystal healing, Sardonyx is considered an Earth stone that assists in preserving energy and keeping one’s feelings in check. This mechanism is considered beneficial for self-control and mental discipline. Hence, it is very helpful to everyone who tries to free oneself from addiction or a bad behaviour pattern.

Conclusion: A Gem for Every August Soul

Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx have an enthralling historical value, along with the product’s artistic appeal. Thus, be it resplendent Peridot, a myriad of Spinel hues, or the aviation history of Sardonyx, each gem holds a special relationship to the month of August.

Besides being rather stunning to look at, many of these gemstones bear significance as symbols and have been used in various cultures throughout the ages. If you are an August baby wanting to celebrate your birth constellation or just a lover of these precious stones, then the birthstones of August have a lot to brag about.

Learn about such fascinating gemstones or upgrade your gem knowledge with IIG India.

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International Institute of Gemology is an educational institute imparting knowledge about Gems and Jewellery. IIG has educated over 1,00,000 professionals excelling in the Gems and Jewellery industry. An institute par excellence offers education programs with certifications that hold global credibility. Having a stronghold in the industry for five decades, IIG has accelerated the quality of education in the Gems and Jewellery sector. IIG works towards bringing the best practices of the Gems and Jewellery industry under one roof.

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