The full guide to August birthstones — meaning, history, and the gemstones for those born in August.
PeridotModern
SardonyxTraditional
DiamondMystical
About
August Birthstone Meaning
Peridot — once mined exclusively from a single Egyptian island — was Cleopatra's "emerald" (modern science later identified what she actually owned). The olive-green color glows even in candlelight. August-born are believed to share that quality of glowing in low light: shining when others fade.
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Birthstones by Month
Find Your Birthstone by Birth Month
Each month has its own stone with unique meaning, history, and healing energy. Tap your birth month to discover yours in detail.
The August birthstone is Peridot, a bright lime-green gem treasured for centuries as the official birthstone for anyone born in August. Spinel and Sardonyx are also recognised as August birthstones. Whether worn as a ring, a pendant, or simply kept as a small pocket talisman, Peridot is the traditional way to carry the energy of your birth month with you every day.
What does the August birthstone mean?
Peridot is associated with warmth, confidence, and good fortune. People wear it to stay connected to those qualities — as a daily reminder, a quiet source of focus, or simply a meaningful link to the month they were born. Like every birthstone, its symbolism is personal: it means the most when it reflects something you genuinely want to nurture in your own life.
What colour is the August birthstone?
The classic August birthstone, Peridot, is a bright lime-green stone. Natural gems vary in tone and saturation, so no two are ever exactly alike — part of what makes each piece feel personal. When choosing Peridot jewellery, look for an even colour and good clarity, and remember that a slightly imperfect natural stone often carries more character than a flawless one.
Which zodiac signs share the August birthstone?
Because August spans two star signs, the August birthstone connects most closely with Leo and Virgo. Many people enjoy pairing their birthstone with their zodiac sign for a fuller picture: your birthstone reflects your birth month, while your sign reflects the sky on the exact day you were born. Together they make a thoughtful, deeply personalised combination.
Is Peridot a good birthday gift?
Yes — Peridot is one of the most meaningful birthday gifts you can give someone born in August. It is personal without being too revealing, it suits any age, and it never goes out of style. A small Peridot piece quietly says you remembered not just the date but the person — which is exactly what a thoughtful birthday gift should do.
Famous August Birthstone (Peridot) Jewels in History
The most legendary August Birthstone (Peridot) specimens have shaped history through royal courts, museums, and cultural lore:
The Cleopatra Peridot Necklace
Egyptian queens collection (which she believed were emeralds) actually contained peridots from Zabargad Island.
Cathedral of Cologne Peridot
Three Holy Kings shrine in Germany contains 200-carat peridot mistaken for emerald for centuries.
Smithsonian Peridot (310 carats)
Largest cut peridot in worlds gem collection.
Geological Properties of August Birthstone (Peridot)
Variety of olivine mineral with magnesium and iron
Hardness 6.5-7 on Mohs scale - moderately durable
Found in meteorites - some peridot literally came from outer space
Egyptians mined peridot on Zabargad Island for 3,500 years
Pakistan, Myanmar, Vietnam, Arizona, and Norway are major sources
