August birthstone
Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx
Peridot's yellow green glow has made it a symbol of light and renewal for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians called it the 'gem of the sun' and believed it carried protective power, sometimes wearing it to ward off nightmares and anxious thoughts. That connection to warmth and clarity still shapes how people think about the stone today.
Spinel and sardonyx round out the August lineup with their own histories. Spinel, found in shades from red to blue, was long mistaken for ruby and sapphire in royal collections, giving it a quiet reputation for hidden strength. Sardonyx, with its layered bands of brown and white, was carved into seals and signet rings by the Greeks and Romans, tied to honesty and steady resolve.
Peridot's color ranges from yellowish green to a rich olive, a shade produced by iron within the crystal itself rather than any added treatment. That fresh, earthy green is often connected to growth, balance, and the outdoors, making it feel like a small piece of late summer sunlight caught in stone.
Peridot suits people who like their jewelry with a bit of warmth and personality, not just quiet sparkle. It pairs naturally with Leo (July 23–August 22), known for confidence and warmth, and Virgo (August 23–September 22), known for practicality and care, though anyone drawn to its sunny green tone can wear it well.
Peridot has been mined for over 3,500 years, most famously on Egypt's Red Sea island of Zabargad, once called Topazios. Some historians believe Cleopatra's famed 'emeralds' were actually peridot. Hawaiian tradition ties the green stone to Pele, goddess of fire, while Romans prized its glow in low light, nicknaming it the 'evening emerald.'
Peridot rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, so it can pick up scratches if it's knocked around with harder stones or tossed loose in a bag. Clean it with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, and skip steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Take rings off before workouts, gardening, or household chores to keep the stone looking its best.
Birthstones by month
Curious what else your month says about you? Read your zodiac sign or explore color meanings.
Frequently asked questions
›What is the August birthstone?
The main August birthstone is peridot, a lime green to olive gem formed from the mineral olivine. Spinel and sardonyx are also recognized as August birthstones, giving people born that month a choice between peridot's signature green, spinel's varied colors, and sardonyx's earthy banded look.
›What does the color of peridot mean?
Peridot's yellow green color comes from iron in its crystal structure and has long been associated with sunlight, growth, and protection. Many cultures linked its brightness to warding off negative energy and welcoming clarity, giving the stone a cheerful, grounding reputation over the centuries.
›Is peridot a valuable or durable gemstone?
Peridot is moderately durable at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, suitable for everyday jewelry with reasonable care. Its value depends on color depth and clarity, with rich olive green stones commanding higher prices, though it's generally more affordable than gems like sapphire or emerald.
›Can you wear peridot every day?
Yes, peridot can be worn daily, especially in earrings or pendants where it faces less impact. For rings worn often, it helps to remove them during manual work or exercise, since peridot can scratch or chip if it's struck hard against other surfaces.