August Birthstone: Peridot
Born in August? Your traditional birthstone is Peridot, a gemstone admired for its distinctive green colour and long history. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one colour, although its shades can range from yellow-green to a deep olive green depending on the amount of iron present in the crystal.
While peridot is the gemstone most commonly associated with August today, this month also has two alternative birthstones: spinel and sardonyx. These additional stones were introduced as birthstone traditions evolved, giving those born in August more choice when selecting a gemstone with personal meaning.
The most valued peridot gemstones typically display a bright, vivid green colour with excellent clarity. Unlike emeralds, which often contain natural inclusions, high-quality peridot is usually prized for its clean appearance and fresh, lively colour.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Peridot
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with happiness, protection and positive energy. Ancient civilisations valued the gemstone for its believed ability to ward off negative influences and bring good fortune to its wearer.
Its vibrant green colour has also made it a symbol of renewal, growth and prosperity, making it a meaningful choice for August birthdays and milestone jewellery pieces.
Where Is Peridot Found?
Peridot is found in several locations around the world, with some of the finest-quality stones coming from Pakistan, Myanmar, Egypt and the United States. Unlike many gemstones that form in the Earth’s crust, peridot develops deep within the Earth’s mantle and is often brought to the surface through volcanic activity.
One of the most fascinating aspects of peridot is that it is not only found on Earth. Tiny crystals of extraterrestrial peridot have been discovered in some meteorites, giving the gemstone a unique connection to outer space.
Peridot in Australia
While Australia is not a major commercial source of peridot, small deposits and occurrences have been identified in parts of the country. Australian peridot is relatively rare compared with gemstones such as sapphire, opal and zircon, which are more commonly mined locally.
For Australian jewellery buyers, most peridot available today is sourced internationally, particularly from regions such as Pakistan and Arizona. These stones are selected for their vibrant green colour, clarity and suitability for fine jewellery pieces.
Peridot Jewellery
Peridot is a gemstone that works beautifully in rings, earrings, pendants and custom jewellery designs. Its bright green tones pair particularly well with yellow gold, rose gold and white metals, allowing jewellers to create pieces ranging from classic to contemporary styles.
Because peridot has a moderate hardness compared with some other popular gemstones, it is best suited to jewellery that receives everyday care. Rings worn frequently may require extra attention to avoid scratches or damage.
Other August Birthstones: Spinel and Sardonyx
While peridot is the most recognised August birthstone today, August is also associated with spinel and sardonyx. These gemstones offer different colours, histories and symbolism, giving August-born jewellery lovers more options when choosing a meaningful gemstone.
Spinel: The Colourful August Birthstone
Spinel is a gemstone admired for its impressive range of colours, including red, pink, orange, blue, purple and black. For centuries, red spinel was often mistaken for ruby because of its similar appearance, with some famous historical gemstones once believed to be rubies later identified as spinel.
Today, high-quality spinel is valued as a gemstone on its own. Fine red spinels are highly sought after for their vibrant colour, rarity and brilliance. Unlike many gemstones that require treatments to enhance their appearance, spinel is often appreciated in its natural state.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Spinel
Spinel has long been associated with energy, passion and renewal. Its range of vibrant colours represents individuality and self-expression, while its durability and natural brilliance make it a meaningful gemstone choice. For those born in August, spinel provides an alternative birthstone with its own unique history and symbolism.
Where Is Spinel Found?
Spinel is found in several locations around the world, with notable sources including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania and Tajikistan. Myanmar has historically produced some of the finest red spinels, while newer deposits in countries such as Tanzania have introduced a wider range of colours to the gemstone market.
Although Australia is not a major source of spinel, Australian collectors and jewellery buyers can access a wide variety of internationally sourced stones.
Sardonyx: The Traditional August Birthstone
Sardonyx is one of the oldest August birthstones and has been valued for thousands of years. It is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz, recognised by its distinctive layered bands of colours ranging from reddish-brown and orange to white and black.
Unlike transparent gemstones such as peridot and spinel, sardonyx is an opaque stone that is often shaped into cabochons, beads and carved jewellery pieces. Its unique banding makes every piece naturally different.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Sardonyx
Throughout history, sardonyx has been associated with protection, strength and confidence. Ancient cultures used sardonyx in carved gemstones, seals and amulets, believing it could provide courage and bring stability to the wearer.
Its long connection with craftsmanship and engraving has made sardonyx a gemstone with strong historical and artistic appeal.
Where Is Sardonyx Found?
Sardonyx is found in various locations around the world, including India, Brazil, Germany, Madagascar, Uruguay and the United States. The gemstone has been used for centuries in decorative arts, particularly for carved cameos and engraved jewellery.
Australia also has deposits of chalcedony varieties, although sardonyx is less commonly mined commercially compared with other Australian gemstones such as opal and sapphire.
Find Your August Birthstone Jewellery
Whether you love the vibrant green beauty of peridot, the rich colours of spinel, or the timeless character of sardonyx, our jewellery collection can help you find a meaningful piece to celebrate your August birthday. Explore our gemstone jewellery or book an appointment for a custom design.
Prefer to speak with us? Call (08) 9301 4077 and our team will be happy to answer your questions and discuss the possibilities for your custom jewellery design.