People Born in August Have a Birthstone That 'Promotes Harmony'—Here's What It Is and the Meaning Behind the Stone
As we move into late summer, August babies are getting ready to party! And what better gift for your favorite Leo (or Virgo!) than one of their spectacular birthday gemstones? When it comes to the August birthstone, there's one primary stone, but two secondary stones as well. And they're all gorgeous with fascinating history.
So if you’re in the market for a birthday gift (or treating yourself!), these birthstones for August are perfect choices.
Let's hop in and explore these three powerful stones and all of their rich and exciting symbolism that comes from their colors and histories.
Related: Here’s Exactly What Your Month's Birthstone Says About Your Personality
What Is the Primary Birthstone for August?
August's primary birthstone is the peridot. This gem is beloved by both experts and enthusiasts for its unique properties and gorgeous appearance.
Sacha Jarmon, gemologist and co-founder of Love Saro, describes it as "one of our favorite healing stones—often referred to as 'The Stone of Joy and Harmony.'" She particularly recommends it for those seeking balance, noting that "it promotes harmony for mind, body and spirit."
Matt Harris, a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs, offers a vivid description that captures the essence of this gem: "Peridot, to me, is Mother Nature's way of reminding us of a green meadow on a sunny summer day. It has a calm, inviting, warm feel."
He also adds a bit of history, mentioning that "the Egyptians called it 'the gem of the sun.'" This connection to nature and warmth makes peridot a perfect representation of August's hot, sunny days.
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August Birthstone Color
Peridot, the primary birthstone of August, is a yellow-green color.
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Is the August Birthstone Rare?
According to Jarmon, "Peridot is classified as a semi-precious gemstone as it is more common/less rare than its precious gemstone friends."
However, she notes an important caveat: "Like with any gemstone, richer, more consistent hues especially in larger sizes will be very rare and highly sought after."
"Peridot is pretty accessible and not as rare as some other birthstones, but as with many gems, exquisite samples can be extremely rare," Harris echoes. "Collectors look for perfectly clear gems that are well cut with a vivid green hue. Once you see a perfect peridot it's hard to forget it."
Interestingly, there's a particularly rare variety of peridot that comes from an unexpected source. Harris explains: "A particular type of peridot called 'pallasitic peridot' is extremely rare because it arrives on Earth via meteorites. These peridot are known for their needle-like inclusions and are the same as Earth peridot except that they are missing the element nickel. A faceted parasitic peridot is often called 'palladot'."
This extraterrestrial connection adds an element of cosmic wonder to the August birthstone.
Meaning and History of Peridot
Peridot boasts a rich history and a variety of meanings across different cultures. Jarmon paints a broad picture of its significance: "With its regal, volcanic and extraterrestrial heritage, peridot has one of the most interesting histories of all the birthstones, which only accentuates the natural beauty of this stunning green gem."
She goes on to explain its use in holistic practices: "Peridot is often used in Eastern healing to harmonize mind, body and spirit. It is a symbol of good luck and connection to nature, also often used as a substitution for emerald with similar healing qualities, including aiding in restful sleep, lung and heart health."
Harris adds to this, detailing some of the beliefs associated with peridot throughout history: "Some ancient civilizations believed peridot protected them against bad dreams and evil spirits. Since peridot is often associated with the sun, it carries a host of meanings and healing properties. It offers protection, prosperity, positive energy to its wearer and even stimulates the heart chakra."
He also notes a modern belief: "Many believe that meditating with or wearing peridot will also boost your confidence."
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The gem's history is intertwined with royalty and ancient civilizations. "Interestingly, Cleopatra was a huge fan,” shares Harris. “You'll see her often depicted in emeralds, but many of us feel that her coveted emerald collection may have actually been peridot!"
He also recounts a fascinating tale of peridot mining in ancient times: "The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on an island called Zabargad (also known as St. John's) Island. They believed that the gem would disappear during the day which means they preferred to mine at night (likely because the gem would sparkle in the moonlight). Mining there, especially at night, was a challenge due treacherous waters, reefs, pirates, and some even say sea monsters! The difficulty and mystery surrounding the process of mining peridot established it, as far back as 300 B.C., as one of the most mystical and fascinating gems in history. Peridot has added a bit of magic to the jewelry world ever since."
Peridot’s rich history and lore contribute to its enduring appeal as August's birthstone.
Related: April Birthstones: Learn the Meaning, Color, History
Where Is Peridot Found?
Peridot is found in various locations around the world, each source contributing to the gem's diversity. Jarmon provides an overview: "Our peridot is sourced primarily from Arizona and Thailand. Today, peridot is found around the world, with deposits discovered in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States."
She also shares an interesting geological fact about a unique location: "In fact, there is a beach in Hawaii called 'Peridot Beach,' where the sand actually shimmers green due to ancient lava flows which deposited the gemstone into the sand after volcanic eruptions. How cool is that?"
Harris highlights a particularly noteworthy location in the United States: "Arizona is famous for peridot. The town near the mine on the San Carlos Apache Reservation is actually named 'Peridot.’"
Related: May Birthstones: Learn All About Their Symbolism, Color and History
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Meaning and History of Spinel
August’s second gemstone, spinel, is a more recent addition. Jarmon explains: "August is one of only three months to have three birthstones, along with June and December. Spinel was likely added to the list because of its beauty, durability, affordability and wide range of colors."
She also notes its metaphysical properties: "Metaphysically, spinel is widely used to treat a wide range of physical symptoms to heal the physical body—e.g. viral/bacterial infections, speed up healing process for wounds, etc."
"The most recently added modern birthstone for August is spinel which was only added in 2016," says Harris. He describes its versatility: "Spinel is the chameleon of the gem world, born in all sorts of colors including blue, red, black, orange, purple and pink. Red spinels are often considered as a replacement for rubies."
He also shares an example of spinel's practical applications in jewelry design: "I personally use black spinel in a particular pearl necklace design that I used to make with black diamonds. It's almost impossible to tell the difference, but now I can provide the same look that used to be $8000 for only $600!"
Harris explains that some spinel colors are more rare than others: "Spinel has a bit of a split personality when it comes to rarity. Some colors, like vibrant reds and blues, are rare and prized by collectors. Others are more common. The higher the chromium content, the stronger the red hue."
He adds that "Spinel can be found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Madagascar, Afghanistan and Tanzania."
Related: June Actually Has 3 Birthstones—Here's What They Are and What They Symbolize
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Meaning and History of Sardonyx
The third August birthstone, sardonyx, has a long and intriguing history.
"Historically, sardonyx dates back to Roman times, used commonly to seal official documents with signet-style rings,” says Jarmon. "Roman soldiers would wear sardonyx into battle believing it would provide them protection and bring them victory. During Renaissance times, this gemstone was associated with eloquence. Public speakers would wear it to aid clear thinking and expression, similar to how we use aquamarine.”
She also describes its believed healing properties: "Similar to peridot and spinel, sardonyx has been used for its physical healing properties—specifically for healing lungs and bones. It is said to effectively aid in regulation of fluids as well as cell metabolism, as well as strengthen the immune system."
Harris provides a vivid description of the stone: "Sardonyx is the sophisticated cousin of onyx with its interesting layers of sard and onyx, creating red and white bands. Think of it as nature's striped candy. It's a type of chalcedony, which is just a fancy word for quartz with character."
Sardonyx is not a particularly rare stone, explains Harris: "Sardonyx is fairly common. But each piece is definitely uniquely different, making every piece of sardonyx jewelry rare in a way!" He adds that "Sardonyx can be found in India, Brazil, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, Germany, and even in the good old USA. The finest examples of sardonyx, which display sharp contrasts between layers, are mostly found in India.”
Each of these three gemstones—peridot, spinel and sardonyx—brings its own unique beauty, history, and meaning. If you’re born in August, you have a wide range of options for birthstone jewelry to wear and appreciate.
Next: What Is Your Birth Flower? Find Out the Meaning Behind the Blooms for Each Month
Sources:
Matt Harris, a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs
Sacha Jarmon, gemologist and founder of LOVE SARO
