August has three recognized birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot is known for yellow-green to greenish-yellow color, spinel appears in a broad range of colors, and sardonyx is identified by its layered bands. For NORVETHA's current August jewelry selection, peridot is the confirmed stocked focus.
For the wider framework behind why modern and alternative birthstone lists differ, read Modern vs Traditional Birthstones.
What are the August birthstones?
The Gemological Institute of America identifies peridot, spinel, and sardonyx as the three August birthstones. They offer distinctly different looks, from peridot's fresh green to spinel's wide color range and sardonyx's structured bands.
| Stone | Typical visual character | Jewelry direction |
|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Yellow-green to greenish yellow, often bright and transparent | Fresh color for earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and gifts |
| Spinel | Available in red, pink, orange, purple, blue, and other colors | A versatile choice when color variety matters |
| Sardonyx | Alternating bands of reddish-brown sard and white or dark onyx | Graphic, layered appearance suited to carved or polished designs |
Why is peridot an August birthstone?
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine and has a long history as an August birthstone. Its color ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow. GIA notes that peridot can form deep within the Earth's mantle and may be carried upward by volcanic activity; gem-quality olivine has also been found in some meteorites.
NORVETHA associates peridot with renewal, strength, and warmth. The meaning is symbolic, guided by the stone's fresh green appearance and long cultural history rather than any promised effect.
Read the dedicated Peridot Meaning guide for a deeper look at its symbolism and everyday styling.
What is spinel?
Spinel is a separate mineral species that was historically confused with ruby in some famous red gemstones. It can occur in vivid red and pink as well as orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish green. That range makes spinel the most color-diverse of the three August birthstones.
NORVETHA does not currently use spinel as the commercial focus of its August collection. It is included here to give an accurate month-level guide, not to imply that spinel products are available.
What is sardonyx?
Sardonyx combines layers of sard and onyx, both forms of chalcedony. Its bands can move between brownish red, dark orange, white, and black. The material has been used for carved seals, cameos, and other ornamental objects for centuries.
As with spinel, sardonyx is part of the factual August birthstone story but is not presented as confirmed NORVETHA inventory.
How do you choose August birthstone jewelry?
Start with color and the way the piece will be worn. Peridot gives the clearest green option and works well when the recipient prefers bright but refined color. Earrings place the green close to the face, a bracelet adds a smaller everyday accent, and a necklace gives the stone a more central role.
- For a quiet everyday gift: choose small peridot studs or a slim bracelet.
- For more movement: choose peridot drop earrings.
- For a layered look: combine peridot with neutral metal or restrained complementary stones.
- For an August birthday: keep the month connection clear in the gift note without making claims about effects.
Browse confirmed live pieces in August Birthstone Jewelry and Peridot Jewelry.
Frequently asked questions
How many birthstones does August have?
August has three recognized birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.
What color is the August birthstone?
There is no single August birthstone color. Peridot is yellow-green to greenish yellow, spinel comes in many colors, and sardonyx is usually banded with reddish-brown, white, or dark layers.
What does peridot symbolize?
In NORVETHA's approved stone meaning system, peridot symbolizes renewal, strength, and warmth.
Does NORVETHA sell all three August birthstones?
No. NORVETHA's current confirmed August collection is centered on peridot. Spinel and sardonyx are included for an accurate educational overview.