August is the eighth month of the year and falls right in the middle of summer. As such, it has some beautiful and vibrant birthstones and jewels associated with it that capture the warmth and liveliness of the season. In this article, we’ll take a look at the various gems and jewels that are traditionally linked with the month of August and explore their meanings and symbolism. We’ll also provide some tips on how to style and wear August’s birthstones.
Peridot
The primary birthstone for August is peridot, which is a stunning light green gemstone formed deep inside the earth’s crust. Peridot has a lively glow and vivid color that evokes the lush greenery of late summer. Some key facts about August’s peridot:
– The vivid green color comes from the presence of iron in the mineral composition. Peridot is the only gem-quality form of the mineral olivine.
– Large deposits are found in Arizona, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Africa. High quality peridot is especially abundant in Myanmar.
– Ancient Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the sun” because of its sparkling green hues. Hawaiian folklore refers to it as the tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes.
– Peridot is associated with prosperity, peace, and good fortune. It’s thought to bring healing properties and protect against negative energies.
– While emeralds are a deeper green, peridot tends to have a yellowish tint to its verdant color.
– This August birthstone looks beautiful in both vintage and modern jewelry designs. Peridot also complements summer tan lines and skin tones well.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a less common August birthstone that offers a unique banded appearance. Here’s an overview of sardonyx:
– It’s a variety of onyx that displays parallel reddish bands on a white or brownish background, giving it an eye-catching striped effect.
– Formed through volcanic activity, sardonyx has been prized since ancient times for talismans and engraving. The name comes from Sardis, an ancient Greek city where it was once mined.
– Many cultures have used sardonyx to represent courage, happiness, and clear communication. Some believe it helps public speakers eloquently convey ideas.
– Sardonyx is sometimes used as an alternate August birthstone for Leo, in place of peridot. Both stones complement those with bold Leo personalities.
– While often imitation pearls are used for the bands, high quality sardonyx features natural, alternating layers of sard and chalcedony quartz.
– Try pairing sardonyx with gold jewelry to make the reddish layers pop. It also enhances medieval Renaissance inspired fashions.
Spinel
While not historically tied to August, spinel has recently gained popularity as an additional August birthstone option. Here’s what to know about this dazzling gem:
– Spinel comes in a rainbow of spectacular colors like pink, red, blue, purple, orange and black. August’s birthstones tend to be green, but spinel offers more variety.
– It has incredible brilliance, fire, and clarity on par with ruby and sapphire, but spinel is more rare and lesser known. It’s been mistaken for other precious gems in history.
– Spinel deposits are found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and other locales. Red spinel is among the rarest shades.
– As a durable, versatile, and inexpensive gemstone, spinel deserves more recognition. It’s perfect for everyday fashion rings and pendants.
– From vivid jewel tones to pastel hues, spinel birthstone jewelry works with any personal style. It’s both contemporary and classically elegant.
– Natural spinel is calcium aluminum oxide, while synthetic spinels are used to create bright colored gemstones. Always opt for the genuine, natural gems.
How to Wear and Style August Birthstones
August’s birthstones are ideal for jewelry that captures summer’s essence. Here are some tips for wearing peridot, sardonyx and spinel:
– Pair peridot with casual seaside looks, like a beach coverup or bikini. For everyday style, add peridot stud earrings or a delicate bracelet.
– Sardonyx makes a regal statement. Use it in cuffs or cocktail rings to elevate evening attire. Also pairs well with workwear.
– Spinel’s versatility allows it to be incorporated into any outfit. Have fun mixing different colored spinels for a playful stacked ring or charm bracelet.
– Combining all three August birthstones together can make for lively late summer jewelry layered over a tan.
– For men’s jewelry, opt for a chunky peridot, sardonyx or spinel ring to add some bold punctuation. Bracelets also work well for men.
– With proper care, August birthstone jewelry can become family heirlooms passed down for generations. Be sure to store pieces safely when not being worn.
Birthstone Jewelry Gift Ideas
Birthstone jewelry makes for meaningful gifts, especially for someone born in August or celebrating a major milestone that month. Here are some August birthstone gift ideas to consider:
| Gift Idea | August Birthstone |
|---|---|
| Peridot stud earrings | Peridot |
| Sardonyx wedding band | Sardonyx |
| Spinel pendant necklace | Spinel |
| Vintage peridot cocktail ring | Peridot |
| Sardonyx cufflinks | Sardonyx |
| Multicolored spinel tennis bracelet | Spinel |
August babies, Leos, and brides-to-be getting married in August will all appreciate receiving jewelry featuring their distinctive birthstones. The vibrant gemstones provide a unique way to celebrate the month.
Conclusion
August has not one but three beautiful birthstones associated with its late summer season – peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Peridot brings a lively green glow while sardonyx displays elegant bands of color. Spinel offers rainbow sparkle as a modern addition to August’s traditional birthstones. Whether set in vintage inspired or contemporary designs, August’s birthstones make for meaningful jewelry gifts and stylish accessories to be treasured. Their vivid brilliance evokes the warmth and bounty of the month.