There are a few options when it comes to determining the birthstone color for the month of August. Traditional and modern birthstone lists provide different gemstone selections, so the color associated with August can vary depending on which list is referenced. Looking at the historical and symbolic meanings behind August’s birthstones can help identify the colors most closely associated with this summer month.
Peridot
Peridot is the traditional and modern birthstone for the month of August. Peridot is known for its vibrant green color, ranging from light greenish-yellow to a deep olive tone. The signature green peridot is caused by traces of iron in its chemical composition. Some of the most coveted peridots have a lively lime green color. Peridot has been a prized gemstone for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt where it was mined on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. It was referred to as the “gem of the sun” because of its dazzling green fire that gleamed even in dim lighting. August’s birthstone peridot has long symbolized strength, power, and protection. It is associated with peace, good fortune, and success.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is considered a secondary or alternative birthstone for the month of August. Sardonyx is a variegated red and white banded form of onyx, a type of mineral chalcedony. The red layers in sardonyx are caused by iron oxide, while the white bands result from crystalline quartz. This alternating red and white banding is the signature of sardonyx. The most desirable and valuable sardonyx displays sharp contrasts between the red and white layers. Sardonyx was a popular stone in Roman times, adorning jewelry and carved cameos. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed sardonyx brought courage, happiness, and clear communication.
Spinel
Spinel is sometimes considered an additional birthstone option for August. Spinel comes in a diverse range of colors like red, pink, purple, blue, black, brown, and orange. However, the most prized and valuable spinel is red. Vivid red spinel is often mistaken for ruby. The key difference is that spinel lacks the rutile needle inclusions found in ruby. Fine red spinels were revered in ancient times but were lost and recategorized as rubies until the late 18th century. August’s birthstone spinel symbolizes revitalization, joyfulness, energy, and inspiration. Red spinel is also thought to protect against harm and soothe sadness.
Carnelian
Carnelian is an alternate August birthstone in some non-traditional birthstone lists. Carnelian is a translucent orange-red to brownish-red variety of chalcedony quartz. The reddish hue is caused by trace amounts of iron oxide. Carnelian has been carved into gemstone seals, rings, beads, and amulets since antiquity. Ancient Egyptians buried the dead with carnelian jewelry as they believed it helped the journey into the afterlife. Carnelian was also worn to enhance passion, love, and desire. August’s birthstone carnelian is connected to courage, confidence, and motivation.
Summary
August has several birthstone options across various historical and modern birthstone charts. The primary August birthstone color is green, which comes from the traditional and contemporary birthstone peridot. Secondary August birthstone colors include the red and white banding of sardonyx, red spinel, and orange-red carnelian. While the colors can vary between green, red/orange, and white, they share symbolic meanings of strength, protection, vitality, and motivation. Peridot’s fresh green is the quintessential and most recognizable August birthstone color.
August Birthstones Colors Chart
| Birthstone | Color(s) |
|---|---|
| Peridot | Green |
| Sardonyx | Red & White |
| Spinel | Red |
| Carnelian | Orange-Red |
Conclusion
August’s lively birthstones come in a spectrum of green, red, orange, and white shades. But the vivid green peridot has long been the dominant gemstone associated with the eighth month of the year. Its verdant green evokes the last bursts of summer foliage before autumn approaches. Given its long history and prevalence in traditional and modern August birthstone charts, peridot green is the quintessential color representing August. The iron-rich composition of peridot fittingly aligns with August’s placement in the peak of summer.
