August is traditionally associated with peridot as its birthstone. However, there are a few other gemstones that are also considered birthstones for the month of August.
Peridot
Peridot is the most well-known and popular birthstone for the month of August. It is a transparent green gemstone, usually with a yellowish tinge. Peridot is the gem quality variety of the mineral olivine. It was very popular in ancient Egyptian jewelry. Nowadays it is still a highly valued gemstone.
Here are some key facts about peridot:
- Color: Green, often with a yellowish tinge
- Hardness: 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: China, Myanmar, Pakistan, United States, Brazil
- Meaning: Protection, peace, success
Peridot has been August’s birthstone since 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers standardized the modern birthstone list. It is recognized as the official August birthstone by the American Gem Society and also appears on the traditional birthstone list.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a lesser-known birthstone for the month of August. It is a variety of onyx with parallel red and white banding. The red layers are sard, while the white layers are chalcedony. Sardonyx was more commonly recognized as August’s birthstone in older birthstone lists.
Here are some key facts about sardonyx:
- Color: Parallel bands of red and white
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: Brazil, Czechoslovakia, Germany, India, United States
- Meaning: Happiness in marriage, eloquence
Sardonyx appears on some older traditional birthstone lists, but is no longer as well-known or popular as August’s birthstone compared to peridot. However, it does have a long history of being associated with August.
Spinel
Spinel is a gemstone that has gained recognition in recent years as an alternate birthstone for August. It comes in a wide variety of colors including red, pink, purple, blue, and black. Spinel has a similar appearance to ruby and sapphire but is chemically distinct.
Here are some key facts about spinel:
- Color: Various (red, pink, purple, blue, black)
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania
- Meaning: Revitalization, energy
In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America added spinel as an additional birthstone option for August. Its new recognition as August’s birthstone has helped increase its popularity and demand.
Carnelian
Carnelian is a brownish-red variety of chalcedony quartz. It has had a long history of use in engraving seals and jewelry. Carnelian is also considered an alternate birthstone for August.
Here are some key facts about carnelian:
- Color: Reddish-orange to brownish-red
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
- Sources: Brazil, India, Uruguay, Germany
- Meaning: Courage, confidence, vitality
Carnelian appears on some older traditional birthstone lists as an August birthstone. It was more popular historically than today, but still offers a distinctive reddish birthstone option for August-born wearers.
Comparison of August Birthstones
Here is a summary comparison of the basic properties of peridot, sardonyx, spinel, and carnelian:
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Green with yellow tones | 6.5 – 7 | Protection, peace |
| Sardonyx | Parallel red & white bands | 7 | Happiness in marriage |
| Spinel | Various colors | 8 | Revitalization |
| Carnelian | Reddish-orange to brownish-red | 7 | Courage, vitality |
August Birthstone Jewelry
August birthstones can make beautiful and meaningful jewelry gifts. Here are some tips for choosing August birthstone jewelry:
- Peridot is the classic August birthstone. Peridot earrings, pendants, and rings are readily available.
- Spinel offers a rainbow of August birthstone color options. Pink spinel is especially popular.
- Sardonyx pendants showcase the stone’s distinctive banding. Engraved sardonyx was historically popular.
- Carnelian is ideal for August birthstone beads and cabochon rings. Its red tones suit bold jewelry.
- Combining stones like peridot and spinel allows wearing multiple August birthstones together.
- Birthstone jewelry with the wearer’s birth month and birthstone makes a thoughtful gift.
August-born individuals are lucky to have so many beautiful birthstone choices. Peridot, sardonyx, spinel, and carnelian each make stunning statement pieces and carry unique symbolic meaning for the August birthday person.
Where to Buy August Birthstones
Here are some recommendations for the best places to buy genuine August birthstones:
- Jewelry Stores – The jewelry store allows you to see stones in person. Reputable jewelers sell quality gemstones and birthstone jewelry.
- Online Retailers – Many major online jewelry retailers sell August birthstones. Look for good return policies and certifications.
- Gem Shows – Gemstone and mineral shows offer a wide selection of loose stones. They are great places to find rare gemstone varieties.
- Direct from Source – Purchasing August birthstones like peridot and spinel directly from gemstone cutting centers can offer savings.
- Estate Sales – Looking for antique or vintage August birthstone jewelry? Check estate sales and auctions.
Be sure to buy August birthstones from trusted, credible sellers. Ask about any gemstone enhancements and treatments and request lab certification if available.
How to Care for August Birthstones
Here are some tips for properly caring for and cleaning August birthstone jewelry:
- Store August birthstones separately to prevent scratches. Use soft cloth bags or boxes.
- Clean with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic or steam cleaners may be used.
- Avoid harsh household chemicals and cleaning products which can damage stones.
- Take caution when wearing August birthstone rings to avoid impact, pressure, and damage.
- Consider removing peridot, spinel, and carnelian jewelry before physical activities.
- Have sardonyx and other engraved stones professionally cleaned to avoid abrasion.
Take your August birthstone jewelry to a professional jeweler annually for inspection and cleaning. With proper care, August birthstones can remain beautiful heirlooms for many years to come.
Conclusion
August has not just one, but several lovely birthstone options: peridot, sardonyx, spinel, and carnelian. Peridot’s classic green tones have made it August’s most famous birthstone, but the other gemstones also have unique colors and histories behind them. An August-born person can choose to wear one or more of these August birthstones to celebrate their birthday month in beautiful jewelry.
