August is the eighth month of the year and has the birth flowers gladiolus and poppy. It also has the birthstones peridot and sardonyx. Below we will explore the meanings and symbolism behind August’s flowers and stones.
Gladiolus
The gladiolus, also known as the ‘sword lily,’ is one of the flowers associated with the month of August. Some key facts about gladiolus include:
- Gladiolus comes from the Latin word ‘gladius’ meaning sword, which refers to the sword-shaped leaves of the plant.
- There are over 250 species of gladiolus flowers native to Africa, Eurasia, and the Mediterranean.
- The most common colors are pink, white, yellow, red, orange, purple and multi-colored.
- The tall, spiky blooms grow on long stems, making them popular cut flowers for arrangements.
- They symbolize strength, moral integrity, and infatuation.
In the Victorian era, gladiolus flowers were given to convey sincerity. Their sword-shaped blooms represented strength and moral integrity. Giving gladiolus conveyed the romantic message “you pierce my heart.”
Today, these dramatic flowers are commonly associated with infatuation and are often used in modern bouquets as a sign of romantic interest. Their diverse range of colors provides many options for arrangements and gifts.
Poppy
Along with gladiolus, the poppy is also a birth flower for August. Here are some key facts about poppies:
- Poppies belong to the Papaveraceae family which includes around 250 species.
- Common colors include red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and white.
- Poppies have symbolic ties to sleep, peace, and death due to their sedative properties.
- During World War I, red poppies became a symbol of remembrance.
- They can mean imagination, extravagance, loyalty, luxury, and eternal sleep.
Red poppies are strongly associated with remembering fallen soldiers. This meaning comes from the bright red flowers that grew over the graves of soldiers who died in World War I battlefields in Europe.
More generally, poppies symbolize sleep, peace, and death because they contain opium and morphine. Their sedative properties create imagery of restful sleep and the eternal sleep of death. Red poppies can mean imagination while yellow poppies represent success, wealth and extravagance.
Peridot
Peridot is one of the traditional birthstones for August. Here are some key facts about this green gemstone:
- Peridot is the mineral olivine and ranges from yellowish-green to olive green.
- Most peridot comes from the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona.
- Other sources are China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and some African countries.
- Peridot is formed deep in the earth’s mantle and brought to the surface by volcanoes.
- It symbolizes strength, power, and healing.
The vivid green color of peridot symbolizes life, renewal, and growth. It has a restful energy that promotes healing and vitality. As the August birthstone, peridot’s verdant green evokes the lush growth of late summer.
In ancient times, people believed peridot stones and jewelry warded off evil spirits and brought the wearer power and influence. Peridot also symbolizes fame, dignity and protection.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the other birthstone associated with August. Here are some key facts about this banded gemstone:
- Sardonyx has alternating bands of sard and onyx which create its striped appearance.
- The most common colors are red/orange, white, and black.
- It’s often carved into cameos and intaglios for rings, pendants, bracelets, etc.
- Sources include India, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Brazil, and Uruguay.
- Sardonyx symbolizes courage, happiness, and clear communication.
The red bands of sard in sardonyx symbolize passion and courage, while the white bands of onyx evoke purity and happiness. Together, this stone represents joy, enthusiasm, and virtuous character.
Historically, sardonyx was a popular stone for Roman seals and signet rings. It was believed to bring luck and protection. Sardonyx is associated with clear, eloquent communication and was thought to enhance public speaking.
Conclusion
August has two lovely birthstones – peridot and sardonyx – that symbolize renewal, vitality, happiness, and protection. Its two birth flowers are the gladiolus, representing infatuation and integrity, and the poppy, evoking imagination and eternal sleep. The vivid colors and rich meanings associated with these plants make them perfect symbols for the month of August.
| Month | Birthstone | Birth Flower |
|---|---|---|
| August | Peridot, Sardonyx | Gladiolus, Poppy |