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What Is the Birthstone for August?
Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx are the official birthstones for August. August is one of only two months in the year with three birthstone options, providing those born in this vibrant summer month with a variety of colors and characteristics to choose from. While sardonyx was the original August birthstone with a history dating back more than 4,000 years, peridot was later designated as the primary birthstone for the month. Spinel, the newest addition to August's birthstone lineup, was added in 2016.
Peridot Birthstone
History & Meaning
Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun" and believed it protected against nightmares and evil spirits. Often confused with topaz and emerald, some believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may actually have been comprised of peridot. The island of Topazios (now referred to as Zabargad) in the Red Sea is the oldest known source of peridot (not topaz, as previously thought).
Throughout history, peridot has symbolized good health, restful sleep, and peace. Used as a protective talisman for centuries, peridot was believed to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. In modern tradition, it is also given to commemorate a 16th wedding anniversary.
Color
Peridot, with its signature lime-green to olive hue, is a gem variety of the mineral olivine. Unlike many gemstones that come in various colors, peridot is one of the few that occurs in only one color family, though its intensity and tint may vary. The most valued peridots show a bright, vibrant lime-green hue with excellent saturation.
Durability
On the softer end of the Mohs hardness scale at a 6.5-7, peridot is safe for daily wear but should be treated with extra care. This birthstone is susceptible to chipping if struck, so it should be protected from scratches and hard impacts with the use of secure settings.
Origin
Besides Zabargad as mentioned, peridot is commonly sourced from a mountainous area near Mogok, Myanmar where rubies and many other gemstones are found. Peridot often comes from both meteorites and volcanic eruptions. Peridot Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii is named after the August birthstone and boasts sand that glitters with the green gemstone. Other common sources of peridot are China, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States.
Care & Maintenance
Peridot must be handled with care, as it is prone to damage from acids and even long-term exposure to perspiration. Never use a steam or ultrasonic cleaner; instead, clean peridot jewelry using a soft-bristle brush with a mild dish soap in warm water. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Store peridot separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches, preferably in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box. Remove peridot jewelry before engaging in household chores, sports, or any activities that might expose the stone to chemicals or impact damage. With proper care, peridot maintains its vibrant color and luster for generations.
Spinel Birthstone
History & Meaning
Spinel has a fascinating history of mistaken identity, as it was frequently misidentified as other gemstones, particularly rubies, due to its similar appearance. Throughout history, some of the most famous "rubies" in royal collections were actually spinels, including the 170-carat "ruby" in the Imperial State Crown of Great Britain, which was later proven to be spinel. The name "spinel" comes from the Latin word "spina," meaning thorn, in reference to the shape of spinel crystals.
Historically, red spinel was thought to be a remedy for inflammatory diseases and was believed to ease anger and promote harmony. As one of August's newer birthstones, spinel is traditionally given as a 22nd wedding anniversary gift.
Color
Spinel presents the widest range of colors among the three August birthstones, occurring in vibrant hues from intense reds and pinks to deep blues, purples, and oranges. The most valuable spinels are vivid red specimens, which have historically been mistaken for rubies. Blue spinels can range from light pastel to deep navy shades, while purple varieties span from lavender to deep violet tones. Each color derives from different trace elements within the crystal structure.
Durability
Reasonably durable, spinel ranks 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it resistant to scratches and suitable for daily wear in rings and other jewelry. Its excellent toughness makes it less prone to chipping or fracturing compared to some other gemstones.
Origin
Spinel is also commonly found near Mogok, Myanmar, as well as Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania.
Care & Maintenance
Spinel can generally withstand ultrasonic and steam cleaners; however, it's important to be mindful of fractures, as these could worsen under certain cleaning conditions. For routine cleaning of this August birthstone, warm soapy water and a soft brush are effective and safe. Avoid exposing spinel to harsh chemicals and store separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. With proper care, spinel retains its vibrant colors and brilliant luster for generations.
Sardonyx Birthstone
History & Meaning
Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, has a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. In ancient times, sardonyx was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings, as hot wax would not stick to it and it was believed to provide protection in battle. During the Renaissance period, this August birthstone became popular for cameos and intaglios (engraved designs).
For those born in August, sardonyx symbolizes courage, happiness, and clear communication. Today, this birthstone symbolizes stability, bringing harmony to marriages and partnerships.
Color
Sardonyx combines alternating layers of two types of chalcedony — sard and onyx — to create a reddish-brown to dark orange stone with white or black bands reminiscent of zebra stripes. Its distinctive reddish-brown and white banded patterns make it a unique addition to any jewelry collection. Different specimens may display variations in band width, color intensity, and pattern, making each piece of sardonyx jewelry one-of-a-kind.
Durability
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, similar to peridot. As with peridot, care should be taken when wearing it, especially in rings. Its layered structure requires some care to prevent chipping. When properly cut and set, this August birthstone can be worn daily with appropriate precautions against impacts and harsh chemicals.
Origin
Sardonyx is commonly found in Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
Care & Maintenance
As with spinel, you can use ultrasonic or steam cleaners with caution, but gentle cleaning methods are best. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
*Brilliant Earth does not carry Sardonyx.
August Birthstone FAQ
Why does August have three birthstones?
Birthstone associations have evolved over time, and as such, certain months have multiple birthstones based on the gemstone’s unique properties or meanings, such as August with three birthstones. This allows those celebrating their birthday in August to have a variety of options.
What is the traditional August birthstone?
Peridot is the traditional August birthstone. Though sardonyx was the original birthstone associated with August, peridot has been widely recognized as the primary August birthstone for many decades. While modern birthstone lists include spinel as an additional option, peridot remains the classic choice that most people associate with August.
