The August Birthstone – Peridot
If you were born in August you are lucky enough to have not one, but three birthstones!
What are the August Birthstones?
The birthstones for August are Peridot, Sardonyx and Spinel.
Peridot
Peridot was referred to by the Egyptians as the ‘Light of the Sun’ due to its vivid green with a hint of yellow colour. It is a form of olivine, and was commonly used in Egyptian jewellery.
The name ‘Peridot’ derives from the Arabic word, ‘faridat’, which when translated means ‘gem’. Originally peridots were found in the mines on Topazios in the Red Sea. Today they can mostly be found in Arizona, as well as China, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Australia, Mexico, Germany and Pakistan.
It is said that a Peridot will protect its owner from the Evil Eye and ward off envious thoughts, which in turn aids friendship. Its lightness of colour is also said to ward off negative thoughts and depression and promote self-esteem.
Sardonyx
The word Sardonyx is derived from the Greek word ‘Sard’, which means “reddish brown,” and ‘onyx’ meaning “veined gem.” It is no surprise then that the name reflects the look of the gemstone.
The stone contains layers of tiny quartz fibres. These are stacked on top of each other to give a banded appearance and can range from translucent to opaque.
The Sardonyx gemstone can be found most commonly in India as well as Uruguay, Germany, Brazil and the Czech Republic.
It is said that Sardonyx can bring confidence and happiness to its wearer. It also brings it’s wearer strength and motivation.
Spinel
Spinel gemstones can be easily confused with Rubies and Garnets due to their rich red colour. However, depending on where they are mined you can also come across pink, purple, orange and blue spinel.
They are similar to diamonds and garnets in the fact that they are singly refractive.
Although rare, surprisingly Spinel gemstones do not have a high price tag. This is because they are so rare not enough consumers know about them to warrant the higher price.
Spinel is said to bring vitality as well as wealth and prosperity to the wearer.
If you have been inspired by this post and would like to take a closer look at our peridot rings click here.
Credit: Earthsky.org, Lori Powers Jewelry, Geology.com, Preciousgemswholesale.com