August stones refer to the birthstones associated with the month of August. People born in August have a few options when it comes to birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. These stones have unique properties and symbolic meanings. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly August stones are and what makes them special.
Peridot
Peridot is one of the most popular August birthstones. It is a green gemstone that ranges from light yellowish-green to olive green. Peridot gets its vivid green colors from the presence of iron. Here are some key facts about peridot:
- Chemical composition: Peridot is magnesium iron silicate.
- Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: Peridot is mined in places like Arizona, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Africa.
- Biggest peridot: The largest cut peridot gemstone weighs 311 carats and is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s gem collection.
In gemstone therapy, peridot is associated with peace, prosperity, and healing. It is thought to be effective for helping treat conditions of the heart, lungs, skin, and digestive system.
Spinel
Spinel is lesser-known compared to other birthstones but has been gaining popularity in recent years. This gemstone comes in a variety of vivid colors like red, pink, purple, blue, and black. Here are some key facts about spinel:
- Chemical composition: Magnesium aluminum oxide
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania
- Largest spinel: The Samarian Spinel, weighing 500 carats, is one of the largest spinels ever found.
In crystal healing, red spinel specifically is associated with energy, passion, and creativity. It is thought to revitalize energy and motivation.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a banded variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz. It has alternating bands of sard and onyx stone. The sard bands range from yellowish-red to reddish-brown while the onyx bands are white to black. Here are some facts about sardonyx:
- Chemical composition: Silicon dioxide
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: India, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Brazil, Uruguay
- Largest sardonyx: There is a Roman sardonyx vessel on display at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston that is 4 feet wide and weighs over 1 ton.
Sardonyx is associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication. It is believed to help improve public speaking skills and bring happiness in relationships.
August Birthstone Tables
Below are tables summarizing some key details about peridot, spinel, and sardonyx:
| August Stone | Chemical Composition | Hardness | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Magnesium iron silicate | 6.5-7 | Arizona, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Africa |
| Spinel | Magnesium aluminum oxide | 8 | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania |
| Sardonyx | Silicon dioxide | 7 | India, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Brazil, Uruguay |
| August Stone | Color Range | Healing Associations |
|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Light yellowish-green to olive green | Peace, prosperity, healing |
| Spinel | Various vivid colors like red, pink, purple, blue, black | Energy, passion, creativity |
| Sardonyx | Alternating sard and onyx bands of yellowish-red to black | Courage, happiness, communication |
How are August Birthstones Used in Jewelry?
August birthstones are very versatile and used in all types of jewelry. Here are some common ways peridot, spinel, and sardonyx are incorporated into jewelry designs:
- Peridot – Peridot looks beautiful as solitaire stones surrounded by diamonds or other white stones like moonstone. Peridot also works well in three-stone rings, dangling earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.
- Spinel – Given its many color varieties, spinel can be paired with many metals and gemstones. Vibrant red spinel is especially striking in rings. Pink and purple spinels have a feminine floral look. Spinels are also used in necklaces, drop earrings, and cuff bracelets.
- Sardonyx – The bold, graphic bands of sardonyx make for striking cocktail rings, wrap bracelets, and statement necklaces. Sardonyx cabochons are also popular for rings and pendants.
When shopping for August birthstone jewelry, key things to look for are color quality, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Work with a reputable jeweler to select stones that are eye clean.
Are August Stones Only for People Born in August?
While peridot, spinel, and sardonyx are considered the traditional stones for August-born people, they can be loved and worn by anyone. Some reasons one might gravitate towards these stones include:
- Your loved one or partner is born in August and you want to gift them a meaningful piece of jewelry.
- You are attracted to the color green and peridot is your favorite green gem.
- You feel you could benefit from the healing properties associated with a stone like sardonyx or spinel.
- You simply love how spinel livens up your jewelry collection with its bursts of color.
August stones have broad appeal across the spectrum. They work for all genders, personalities, and styles. Whether you were born in August or not,August gemstones can hold special meaning for you.
How Can You Tell If an August Stone Is Real?
Natural peridot, spinel and sardonyx can be imitated by manufactured gemstone simulants. Here are some tips for distinguishing real vs fake:
Peridot
- Real peridot has inclusions like black spots visible under magnification.
- Imitation peridot is flawless under a loupe.
- Peridot has a hardness of 6.5-7 whereas glass is around 5.5.
- Natural peridot shows doubling of the back facets when viewed through the front; glass does not.
Spinel
- Natural spinel is singly refractive; imitation spinel is doubly refractive.
- Spinel exhibits octahedral crystal structure under magnification.
- Synthetic spinel has gas bubble inclusions visible under 10x magnification.
Sardonyx
- Natural sardonyx has a hardness of 7; glass substitutes are around 5-5.5.
- Imitation sardonyx lacks the fine, alternating color bands of natural stone.
- Natural sardonyx is cold to the touch whereas glass feels warm.
When in doubt about the authenticity of an August birthstone, consult with a qualified gemologist who can properly analyze the stone. Reputable jewelers will provide lab certification of any gemstones they sell.
What is the August Birth Flower?
In addition to birthstones, every month has a designated birth flower. The traditional birth flower for August is the gladiolus, also known as the ‘sword lily’. Here are some things to know about this flower:
- Gladioli grow from rounded, symmetrical bulbs that sprout linear leaves and tall spiky blooms.
- They come in a diverse range of colors like red, pink, orange, purple, yellow, white, green, and more.
- The sword-shaped flowers represent strength of character, honor, and moral integrity.
- Gladioli grow naturally in South Africa and were brought to Europe in the 18th century.
- In floral language, gladiolus expresses infatuation, calm, and integrity.
Gladiolus makes a dramatic, eye-catching bouquet or centerpiece. When given as a gift, it conveys sincere emotions and moral strength.
How Much do August Birthstones Cost?
As with all gemstones, August stones can vary greatly in price depending on factors like:
- Carat weight – Larger stones cost more per carat
- Color quality – Vivid, saturated colors are most desirable
- Clarity – Eye clean stones with few inclusions cost more
- Cut – Precise cuts enhance beauty and value
- Source – Some localities produce finer gems
- Rarity – Common stones tend to cost less
- Treatment – Untreated natural gems have higher value
Some example price ranges for average quality August stones are:
| August Stone | Price Range per Carat |
|---|---|
| Peridot | $50 – $300 |
| Spinel | $100 – $1,000 |
| Sardonyx | $50 – $200 |
Fine quality stones over one carat can run into the thousands per carat. Known as the “Evening Emerald”, high quality peridot can cost over $3,000 per carat for stones from top sources like Burma.
Where to Buy August Birthstones
You can find August birthstones from these sources:
- Jewelry stores – Most jewelry retailers sell birthstone jewelry. Larger stores will have the biggest selection of raw stones and settings.
- Online dealers – Many e-commerce sites sell loose gemstones that can be used to design custom jewelry. Reputable online sellers will provide certifications of authenticity.
- Gem shows – Attending gem and mineral shows allows you to shop from many vendors and find rare stone varieties.
- Estate sales – You can find unique vintage and antique August birthstone jewelry at estate sales and auctions.
- Pawn shops – Sometimes you can discover high-quality birthstones for discounted prices at pawn shops.
Always request a lab report when purchasing loose gemstones to verify the stated quality. The best places to buy your August birthstones offer reasonable prices, wide selections, knowledgeable staff, and credible certifications.
How Should August Birthstones Be Cared For?
While durable compared to other gemstones, August birthstones still require some care to keep them in good condition:
Cleaning
- Clean peridot and sardonyx with warm soapy water. Use a soft brush for sardonyx to get into the crevices.
- Best cleaning method for spinel is an ultrasonic machine or gentle soap and water.
- Avoid steam cleaners which can cause fractures in the stones.
Storage
- Store August birthstones separately from harder gems to prevent scratching.
- Wrap stones in soft cloth or place in individual jewelry boxes.
- Avoid exposing peridot to acids, alkalis, or thermal shock.
Prevention
- Take off August birthstone jewelry before physical activities like swimming, hiking, exercising, etc.
- When in rings, protect spinel and peridot from blows by turning the stone inward.
- Have sardonyx re-polished as needed by a professional to maintain the crisp band separation.
Cared for properly, August birthstones can remain beautiful gems for many generations of wear. Consult a jeweler if you ever notice chips, cracks, or dulling that require expert repair.
Conclusion
August babies are lucky to have three appealing birthstones to choose from. Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx have their own captivating qualities. Peridot radiates life with its verdant shine. Spinel brings joyful pops of color. Sardonyx displays bold, graphic beauty. Their metaphysical associations make them gems of courage, passion, communication and prosperity. An August stone can be a meaningful keepsake for anyone, August-born or not. With proper care, these stones last for many years and retain their astrological power.
