August Birthstone Guide: The Meaning Behind Peridot, Spinel & Sardonyx
Each August birthstone holds a unique blend of rich history, vibrant color, and meaningful symbolism. These stones have been cherished for centuries, valued not only for their beauty but also for the positive energy and personal significance they carry. Choosing an August birthstone means embracing a timeless tradition that inspires confidence and connection through every stage of life.
What is august birthstone?
As early as the ancient Greek and Roman periods, Sardonyx was regarded as a talisman and a symbol of strength. It was the first gemstone to be considered as the birthstone for August. When the American Gem Association first established the birthstone list in 1912, agate was officially listed as the official birthstone for August, so Sardonyx is the original and oldest birthstone for August.
Later, semi-precious stone peridot gradually became the modern birthstone gemstone for August in the mid-20th century, and gradually replaced Sardonyx in popular culture and the jewelry market. Peridot birthstone stone is also the most widely used August birthstone in the market today, symbolizing peace, healing and light.
In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association officially included spinel in the modern birthstone of August system, becoming the third official birthstone after agate and peridot. It is famous for its rich colors, high hardness and historical confusion with ruby.
Therefore, there are actually three types of August birthstones, namely peridot, spinel and sardonyx.
Peridot: The Classic Green Birthstone Gemstone of August
Color & Origin
August green birthstone Peridot is the most representative gemstone for the month of August with its unique yellow-green to olive green hue. The more iron content in the gemstone, the darker the green color. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot’s green color is not due to impurities, but is a natural color caused by its own composition, so it is called an “idiochromatic gemstone”.
The main sources of peridot include Myanmar, Pakistan and the United States. Myanmar generally produces extremely high-quality, rich-colored gem-grade peridot and is the most famous source.
Symbolism & Meaning
As the vibrant green peridot birthstone, August’s gem has long been associated with light, renewal, and inner balance. Throughout history, the meaning of August birthstone has been tied to peace and emotional healing—many believe peridot helps calm the mind, ease anxiety, and restore emotional harmony. In various cultures, it also symbolizes happiness and abundance, thought to attract prosperity and positive energy.
During the Middle Ages, peridot was often used in protective amulets, believed to guard against evil spirits and envy. Additionally, its gentle energy is said to mend relationships and encourage compassion, making it not only a beautiful gemstone, but also a meaningful august birthstone presents of care and reconciliation.
Because of its bright and warm qualities, peridot is especially favored as the August Leo birthstone, reflecting Leo’s fiery and confident spirit. It is also cherished as the August Virgo birthstone, symbolizing Virgo’s purity, practicality, and desire for emotional balance.
Jewelry & Style Tips
When it comes to styling August birthstone jewelry, peridot’s refreshing green hue pairs beautifully with both gold and silver. A simple August birthstone necklace adds a pop of color to any outfit, while matching earrings bring brightness to the face. For everyday elegance or a thoughtful gift, birthstone rings for August offer both meaning and charm—perfect for celebrating personal milestones in style.
Spinel: The Underrated Beauty with Royal Roots
Color Variety and Origin
The Color of the August Birthstone presents a variety of colors such as red, pink, purple, blue, orange and even gray and black. It is known as one of the most changeable gemstones for its rich colors and is a fashionable representative of August birthstones. Red spinel, because of its rich color and similar appearance to ruby, is often used as a alternative for ruby. Spinel usually shows natural bright colors without artificial treatment, so it is regarded as a “real colored gemstone”.
August gemstone spinel has a long history, but it has always been mistaken for ruby. It was not until modern times that it was gradually recognized and valued. It is mainly produced in Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.
Symbolism & Energy
Among the all three August birthstones, spinel stands out not only for its vibrant colors but also for its deep emotional resonance. The August birthstone meaning behind spinel centers on renewal, strength, and emotional healing. It is often associated with restoring vitality and confidence after hardship, making it a symbol of resilience and fresh beginnings.
Different colors of spinel are believed to carry distinct energies—red symbolizes courage and passion, blue promotes clarity and calm, while pink encourages emotional harmony and compassion. Historically worn as a protective stone, spinel is said to guard against negativity and help stabilize emotions. With its powerful symbolism of loyalty, self-healing, and inner peace, spinel is more than a beautiful gem—it’s a meaningful companion for those embracing personal growth.
Jewelry & Styling Ideas
Spinel’s rich colors make it perfect for standout jewelry. A deep red spinel ring adds regal charm, while pink or violet spinel earrings offer a romantic touch. Pair a blue spinel pendant with minimalist outfits for a bold, modern edge. Whether in vintage or contemporary designs, spinel brings color, elegance, and individuality to any jewelry collection.
Sardonyx: The Oldest and Most Earthy August Birthstone
Appearance & Formation & Origin
Sardonyx, the gemstone for August birthday, is one of the earliest birthstones for August and is also the most classical gemstone. It is made of alternating layers of reddish-brown Sardonyx and white striped Onyx, showing a red, brown and white striped structure, which gives agate a calm and solemn beauty. It was also widely used in ancient times to carve seals, amulets and relief patterns.
The main sources of agate include India and Brazil, which produce high-quality multi-color agate with bright colors and clear textures.
Meaning & Cultural Significance
Sardonyx, one of the oldest recorded August birthstones, carries deep historical roots and rich symbolic meaning. With its striking red-brown and white banded appearance, it represents balance, structure, and the grounding energy of the earth. In ancient Roman culture, sardonyx was worn by soldiers as a protective talisman believed to bring courage, resilience, and victory in battle. It was also prized by orators and leaders for enhancing clarity in speech and persuasive power. In regions like India and Persia, sardonyx was valued as a guardian stone, thought to ward off evil and calm the mind.
Spiritually, it symbolizes integrity, discipline, and responsibility, making it a stone of loyalty and emotional strength. Its earthy tones are often associated with the root chakra, believed to offer stability, security, and a deeper connection to one’s foundation. More than just a beautiful gem, sardonyx is a timeless symbol of protection, strength, and grounded wisdom that continues to resonate through centuries of cultural tradition.
How to Wear Sardonyx?
Sardonyx is ideal for everyday wear due to its durability and earthy elegance. It looks striking in rings, bracelets, and pendants—especially when set in gold or antique-style metals. To enhance its grounding energy, wear sardonyx close to the skin, such as on the wrist or as a pendant near the heart. Its bold stripes also make it a great statement piece in vintage or minimalist styles.
Caring for August Birthstone Jewelry
- Clean with mild soap: Use lukewarm water and gentle soap; avoid harsh chemicals.
- Use a soft cloth: Wipe gently with a soft cloth or brush to avoid scratches.
- Avoid heat: Keep away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature changes.
- Store separately: Place in soft pouches to prevent contact with harder gems.
- Remove during activities: Take off jewelry when exercising, cleaning, or swimming.
- Check settings: Regularly inspect prongs and clasps to keep stones secure.
Conclusion
No matter if you prefer the vibrant glow of peridot, the royal hues of spinel, or the earthy tones of sardonyx, all august birthstones carry their own unique stories and powerful meanings.
FAQs About August Birthstone
The name of the August birthstone is primarily peridot, known for its vibrant green color. Additionally, spinel and sardonyx are also recognized as alternative August birthstones, giving more options for this month’s gemstone choices.
The most well-known birthstone color for the month of August is a vibrant yellow-green, characteristic of peridot. Spinel and sardonyx add rich hues like red, pink, and earthy brown stripes to the palette of August birthstone colors.
August has three birthstones because different cultures and gem traditions have recognized multiple stones to represent the month, offering a variety of choices that reflect diverse meanings and styles.
August born individuals can choose any of the three recognized birthstones that resonate with them personally. Wearing all August birthstones together is possible, but balancing their colors and styles is key for a harmonious look.
August Leo’s and Virgo’s birthstone is primarily peridot, symbolizing vitality and renewal. Sometimes spinel is also considered a complementary birthstone for Virgo.
