If someone you love has an August birthday, it’s time to start thinking about the birthstones of August!
Folks born in the eighth month share a birthstone with some pretty impressive company. Peridot is the birthstone of both George Clooney and Jennifer Lawrence—not to mention a slew of royals, including the Queen Elizabeth II, Empress Josephine, and Catherine the Great.
With such a star-studded list of fans, it’s no wonder that peridot is such a popular choice for jewelry.
But everyone is different! Not to worry, my friend. August babies have two other birthstones to choose from which are sardonyx and spinel.
The Three Birthstones of August
If you were born in August, you have the privilege of having three different birthstones to choose from. Here’s a quick look at those birthstones of August and their attributes.
Peridot, the Traditional Birthstone of August
Peridot is a bright green stone that is said to symbolize strength and vitality. It is also believed to promote healing and give its wearer peace of mind.
Peridot is found in lava flows and meteorites, making it one of the oldest known stones on earth. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years and is still quite popular today. In fact, peridot is the official gemstone of Arizona—the state where it’s most commonly found.
In ancient times, peridot was believed to be a powerful amulet that could ward off evil spirits. Today, peridot is still believed to have healing properties and is often used in crystal therapy.
If you’re looking for a birthstone that will help you feel balanced and grounded, peridot is the stone for you.
Sardonyx, the Second Birthstone of August
Sardonyx is a striped stone that is typically white or light pink with dark red stripes. It’s said to represent courage, strength, and happiness.
Sardonyx has been used in jewelry and carving since ancient times. The most famous example of sardonyx carving is the Seal of Solomon, which was said to have been given to King Solomon by God and gave him the power to control demons.
Other examples of sardonyx jewelry date back to Roman times when it was used to make signet rings. In the Middle Ages, sardonyx was believed to ward off evil spirits and offer protection in battle.
If you’re looking for a stone that will inspire confidence and positivity, sardonyx is the right choice for you.
Spinel, the Third Birthstone of August
Spinel is a colorful stone that comes in many different shades, including red, pink, orange, blue, and violet. The stone gets its name from the Latin word “spina,” meaning “thorn,” because of its pointed crystals.
Spinel is said to symbolize hope, energy, and revitalization.
Spinel has been used in jewelry for centuries. Some of the most famous examples include the “Cote d’Azur” necklace, which belonged to Marie Antoinette, and the “garnet suite” earrings and necklace, which were made for Empress Eugenie in 1853.
If you’re looking for a stone that will lift your spirits and give you a boost of energy, spinel is the perfect choice.
Peridot – The Traditional August Birthstone
The most traditional birthstones of August is the peridot – one of my favorites, because of its beautiful green color. Here are some facts that help me when I’m looking for birthstone presents – hopefully they will help you too. 🙂
August Birthstone Color: Light Green
Light green is a symbol of new growth, balance, peace and learning. Green is also said to be the color of success, healing and relaxation.
Traditional & Modern Gem: Peridot Birthstone
The peridot gemstone is the official birthstone (modern and traditional) for the month of August. One of the unique characteristics of the peridot is that it shines beautifully regardless of the lighting.
This is one of my all-time favorite stones!
Birthstone Meanings: Compassion, Friendliness, Health, Harmony
Peridot is known as the stone of friendship. This gem is believed to bring balance and healing to the body and happiness to married life. Peridot is also said to alleviate feelings of anger, jealousy, and stress.
Facts and Mythology:
The peridot is the national gem of Egypt. It is also believed to be the chrysolite stone referenced in the book of Revelations from the Bible. It is found in areas with high volcanic activity.
My favorite legend claims that Peridot stones are the hardened tears of Pele, the treacherous volcano goddess said to have the explosive and sometimes deceptively calm temperament of a volcano.
Peridot Birthstone Gift Ideas
In case you want to get creative with your peridot birthstone gifts, here are some ideas:
- Peridot jewelry for women – necklaces, custom pendants, bracelets, earrings, Claddagh and other rings
- Peridot jewelry for men – cuff links, tie chains, belt buckles, military or class rings, watches, masculine pendants
- Bright green rhinestone cell phone covers
- Peridot cell phone charms
- Peridot rosary, glasses chain, or lanyard
- Bright green colored rock candy
- Pocket knives with peridot inlaid in the handle
- Pretty much anything light green or with gems (real or not) the same color as peridot
August Birthstone Flower: Gladiolus
The August birth flower is the vibrant Gladiolus, which got its name from the word “gladius” (meaning sword) and “gladiator” (meaning warrior). This is a spunky member of the iris family, said to represent integrity and strength and makes for a lovely birthday gift bouquet.
You can also give bouquets with bright green flowers, the color of the peridot birthstone. Some of my favorites in lime green are spider mums or carnations mixed with yellow roses, coral-colored peonies or red carnations.
Sources: See sources listed on the Birthstone Color Chart page.
Up Next: September Birthstone
Previously: July Birthstone
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