August Birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx
If you were born in August, you’re one of the lucky ones – this month has three official birthstones to choose from: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each stone offers something unique. Whether you’re drawn to their beauty or symbolism, August birthstones reflect the energy, warmth, and strength of summer.
In this guide, we’ll explore the meaning and history behind each stone, their spiritual properties, and tips for choosing the perfect August birthstone jewelry. Let’s dive in and discover which gem speaks to you!
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What is the August birthstone?
August has not just one, but three unique birthstones to choose from – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.
Each of these gems is unique, with its own story, symbolism, and beauty. Let’s take a closer look at each of these gems to help you find the one that fits your energy and style.
Peridot Birhstone: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot is perhaps the most well-known of the three stunning August birthstones. With its signature lime-green glow, this gemstone has been prized for thousands of years for both its beauty and its uplifting energy.
The ancient Egyptians adored it and called it the “Gem of the Sun.” They believed it protected against nightmares and brought the wearer happiness and strength.
Historically, peridot was often mistaken for an emerald due to its rich green hue. In fact, some of Cleopatra’s famed “emeralds” may have actually been peridots from Egypt’s Zabargad Island, the ancient source of the world’s finest peridots.
Peridot is also believed to be one of the stones in the High Priest’s breastplate described in the Bible.
Peridot Properties At Glance:
- Color: Yellow-green to olive
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5–7
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Common Sources: United States (Arizona), Pakistan, Myanmar, China
Spinel Birthstone: Sparkling Not a Ruby
Spinel’s rich history is also filled with mistaken identity – for centuries, it was confused with ruby. It is easy to see why, looking at this picture.
Some of the most famous “rubies” in royal collections are actually spinels. Here is the 170-carat (34 g) “Black Prince’s Ruby” in the British Imperial State Crown:
And the impressive 352.54-carat (71 g) Timur Ruby in Queen Victoria’s necklace, an unfaceted, unpolished 361-carat red spinel presented as a gift to Queen Victoria by The East India Company in 1851:
It wasn’t until modern gemology advanced that spinel was officially recognized as a distinct gemstone. In 2016, it earned its rightful place as one of the official August birthstones, alongside peridot and sardonyx.
The name “spinel” may originate from the Latin spina, meaning “thorn,” which references the pointed shape of its natural crystals.
Spinel Properties At Glance:
- Color: Red, pink, purple, blue, orange, black
- Mohs Hardness: 7.5–8
- Crystal System: Cubic
- Common Sources: Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania
Sardonyx Birthstone: Grounded Strength
Rounding out the trio of August birthstones, sardonyx is one of the oldest known gems associated with the month. With its distinctive bands of reddish-brown and white, it brings a grounding, bold energy.
Sardonyx has been used in protective amulets and powerful talismans for thousands of years, since ancient Egypt and Rome. Roman soldiers would wear sardonyx engraved with images of heroes or gods to boost courage in battle. It was also believed to attract stability, lasting happiness, and luck in love and marriage.
The name comes from the combination of “sard” (a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and “onyx” (a layered form of quartz), reflecting its beautiful striped appearance.
Sardonyx Properties At Glance:
- Color: Banded red, brown, white, and orange
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5–7
- Crystal System: Trigonal (a variety of chalcedony)
- Common Sources: India, Brazil, Germany, Uruguay, United States
August birthstone color
The August birthstone color palette is as vibrant as the month itself. August birthstones come in a beautiful spectrum of colors:
- Peridot glows in shades of green, from fresh lime to olive green
- Spinel is most prized in ruby red, but also comes in the shades of pink, orange, purple, blue, and black
- Sardonyx shows off bold bands of red, brown, and white in a single stone
The wide range of August birthstone colors makes it easy to find a gem that both matches your personality and complements your wardrobe.
Peridot Birthstone Color: A Radiant Green
Peridot’s fresh green color is unlike any other gemstone. Its unique green shade comes from the presence of iron in its crystal structure, not from trace elements like most other gems. The result is a naturally vibrant hue that ranges from chartreuse to deep olive.
This lively green reminds one of fresh summer grass, making peridot a perfect gemstone for individuals born in summer. It pairs beautifully with gold or silver for some stunning August birthstone jewelry.
Spinel Birthstone Color: A Vivid Red (And More)
What makes spinel especially unique is the variety of hues it comes in. The most sought-after August birthstone color in spinel is a vivid red, often rivaling ruby. But you’ll also find:
- soft pink spinel
- purple spinel
- blue spinel with deep blue and gray tones
- fiery orange spinel
- and even a jet black spinel
Spinel, with its range of hues, is a perfect August birthstone that can be matched to your specific color preference or need.
Sardonyx Birthstone Color: Naturally Bold
Sardonyx will fit those looking for a more natural and earthy tones for their August birthstone colors. Its signature bands range from dark red to soft cream, creating one-of-a-kind patterns in every stone.
These rich, grounded tones make Sardonyx a favorite for more rustic or vintage-inspired designs. It might be especially appealing if you are drawn to protective or symbolic jewelry.
August birthstone meaning
Each of the three August birthstones has its own powerful meaning and symbolism:
- Peridot represents joy, abundance, and emotional clarity
- Spinel symbolizes inspiration, energy, and resilience
- Sardonyx stands for strength, stability, and protection
These unique August birthstone meanings add another layer to your jewelry or crystal collection. These are not just pretty stones. They can also be worn as a spiritual support or as a reminder or encouragement of your own strengths.
Peridot Meaning
Peridot is all about positivity and emotional clarity. It’s thought to:
- Encourage joy, confidence, and compassion
- Help release negative patterns and past hurts
- Strengthen friendships and open the heart to love
In crystal healing, peridot is connected to the Heart Chakra and the Solar Plexus Chakra, supporting emotional balance and personal empowerment.
“A stone of sunshine and self-growth, peridot gently guides the heart toward healing and happiness.”
Spinel Meaning
Spinel symbolizes revitalization, resilience, and self-renewal. Different colors are linked to slightly different energies, but overall, spinel is believed to:
- Restore physical energy and stamina
- Encourage a sense of hope and inspiration
- Support emotional balance during times of stress
In crystal healing, spinel is a versatile stone that resonates with multiple chakras depending on its color, especially the Root Chakra (red and black spinel), Throat Chakra, and Third-Eye Chakra (blue spinel).
“Bright, bold, and full of renewal – spinel is your reminder that transformation is always possible.”
Sardonyx Meaning
The Sardonyx centers on strength, grounding, and protection. It’s thought to:
- Increase personal willpower and discipline
- Create emotional stability and resilience
- Promote lasting relationships and clear communication
Spiritually, Sardonyx is closely linked to the Root Chakra, helping to ground energy, and the Sacral Chakra, promoting a strong sense of self.
“Layered like the earth itself, sardonyx speaks of stability, courage, and the quiet power of self-discipline.”
August birthstone jewelry
August birthstone jewelry brings together vibrant colors, ancient symbolism, and the bold summer energy of its three unique gems: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each stone offers its distinctive vibe.
Wearing birthstones close to the skin is said to amplify their energetic benefits, offering protection, emotional balance, and confidence. Whether you’re drawn to their natural beauty or their deeper meaning, August birthstone jewelry is a powerful way to express your personality and celebrate your connection to the sunniest time of the year.
August birthstone bracelets
August birthstone bracelets are a beautiful way to carry the energy of peridot, sardonyx, or spinel throughout your day. These bracelets combine style with intention, making them perfect for everyday wear and personal empowerment.
August birthstone necklaces
August birthstone necklaces are a powerful way to keep your chosen gem close to your heart – literally. Worn alone or layered with other meaningful pieces, these necklaces combine intention with elegance, helping you stay connected to your inner strength and summer-born spirit.
Peridot Necklaces and Pendants
Earrings and rings are available to match the necklace and create a stunning set.
The detailed setting mixes bold lines with a semi-minimalist bronze wirework style.
Spinel Necklaces
Sardonyx Necklaces
August birthstone rings
An August birthstone ring is a bold and meaningful way to celebrate your birth month. With their natural beauty and symbolic power, August rings are perfect for personal expression or heartfelt gifting.
Peridot Rings
Spinel Rings
Sardonyx rings
August birthstone earrings
August birthstone earrings bring color, energy, and meaning right where it’s most noticed. Whether you prefer simple studs or eye-catching drops, these earrings uplift mood, boost confidence, and offer spiritual protection – all while adding a vibrant, personal touch to your look.
Peridot Earrings
Spinel Earrings
Sardonyx Earrings
Which August Birthstone Should You Choose?
With three official August birthstones, you’re spoiled for choice! We understand, sometimes too much choice can be overwhelming and not good either.
Here’s a quick guide and summary to help you find the August birthstone that fits you best:
Choose peridot if you want…
- A bright, uplifting stone to boost mood and confidence
- A fresh green gem that feels like pure summer energy
- A Heart Chakra crystal to support healing and joy
- A sparkling gem for August birthstone necklaces or rings that stand out
Choose spinel if you want…
- A versatile gem with a variety of colors to choose from
- A high-energy stone for renewal, inspiration, or grounding
- Something with royal history and modern style
- A vibrant choice for August birthstone earrings or bracelets that pop
Choose sardonyx if you want…
- A deeply grounding, protective energy
- A vintage-style gem with ancient roots
- Support for strength, courage, and stable relationships
- An earthy, meaningful piece of August birthstone jewelry that tells a story
Here’s a quick overview of the three official August birthstones to help you choose the one that speaks to you most:
| August Birthstone | Birthstone Color | Meaning & Energy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Bright green shades, from yellow-green to deep olive-green | Positivity, joy, abundance, confidence | Releasing negative patterns, opening heart to love |
| Spinel | Red, pink, orange, blue, black | Renewal, inspiration, vitality | Restoring energy, inspiring hope, encouragement through hard times |
| Sardonyx | Earthy red, brown, and white in bold bands | Strength, stability, protection, grounding | Supporting emotional stability and resilience, increasing willpower and discipline |
If you feel torn between two or more, you’re not alone! Many people wear a combination of Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx to connect with different aspects of themselves or balance out their energy.
The beauty of August birthstones lies in their variety – there’s something for every soul born in this sunny, spirited month, whether you’re guided by meaning, color, or personal style.
Wrap-Up: Celebrate August with a Stone That Speaks to You
From the radiant green of peridot, through the vibrant sparkle of spinel, to the earthy strength of sardonyx, the August birthstones offer something truly special for everyone born in this sunny month.
We hope we have helped you explore some of the beauty and powers of August birthstones and helped you choose the stone that would match your style and spirit. But since you’re lucky enough to be born in August, why not enjoy the full spectrum and have more than one of these beautiful stones?
Whichever stone you choose, let it be a reminder of your inner light, strength, and connection to something timeless.
August Birthstones FAQ
What is the August birthstone?
August has three official birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each offers unique beauty and symbolism, giving August-born folks a variety of gems to choose from.
Why does August have three birthstones?
Over time, additional birthstones were added to the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) birthstone lists to give customers more options for color, affordability, and availability. Sardonyx is the traditional August birthstone, peridot is the official August birthstone since 1912, while spinel was added recently in 2016.
What color is the August birthstone?
August birthstones come in a range of colors: Peridot comes in shades of green, from bright yellow-green to olive green. Spinel is most popular in vivid red, but also comes in pink, orange, blue, or black. Sardonyx has alternating layers of sard and onyx, which are red, brown, white, and orange.
What are the meanings of the August birthstones?
Each August birthstone carries unique meanings:
Peridot symbolizes joy, abundance, and healing
Spinel encourages renewal, vitality, and inspiration
Sardonyx represents strength, stability, and protection
What is the new birthstone for August?
Spinel is the new birthstone for August, being added to the official American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) birthstone lists in 2016. The other two August birthstones are peridot and sardonyx.
Can I wear more than one August birthstone?
Absolutely! Many people wear peridot, sardonyx, and spinel together to benefit from their combined energies – or simply because they love the variety of colors and styles.
