August is one of the few months that comes with not one but three official birthstones — peridot, spinel, and sardonyx — giving anyone born in late summer a genuinely beautiful range of choices. Whether you’re shopping for an August birthday gift or simply drawn to the warm, sunlit palette these stones share, understanding what makes each gem special helps you choose something meaningful and lasting. Here’s what you should know.

Peridot: The Classic August Birthstone

Peridot is the gem most people associate with August, and for good reason. Its signature olive-to-lime green color is unlike any other stone in the jewelry world — it gets its hue not from trace impurities, as most colored gems do, but from the iron content within the mineral itself. That means peridot is always green, and always unmistakably peridot.

Historically, peridot was mined on a volcanic island in the Red Sea and was prized by ancient Egyptians, who called it the “gem of the sun.” Today, fine peridot is sourced from places as varied as Arizona, Pakistan, and Myanmar. The most valuable stones tend toward a rich, saturated grass green rather than a pale or yellowish tone. Set in yellow gold, peridot takes on a warm, classic feel; in white gold or sterling silver, its cool green becomes more crisp and contemporary.

Spinel: The Underappreciated Gem Worth Knowing

Spinel was added as an official August birthstone in 2016, and it deserves far more attention than it typically receives. For centuries, many of history’s most famous “rubies” — including stones set in royal regalia — turned out to be red spinels. The gem was so consistently confused with ruby and sapphire that its own identity was largely overlooked.

Today, spinel is appreciated on its own merits. It comes in a striking range of colors, including vivid reds, hot pinks, deep blues, and soft lavenders, making it one of the most versatile colored gemstones available. Spinel also has excellent hardness and brilliance, which makes it a practical choice for everyday jewelry, not just occasional pieces. If you want to give an August birthday gift that feels distinctive and a little unexpected, spinel is worth serious consideration.

Sardonyx: Ancient, Storied, and Still Beautiful

Sardonyx is the oldest of the three August birthstones and perhaps the least familiar to modern buyers. It is a layered stone — a variety of onyx that alternates bands of reddish-brown sard with white or black. Ancient Romans wore sardonyx rings carved with figures of gods and heroes, believing the stone brought courage and eloquence. It was one of the most valued gems of the ancient world.

Today, sardonyx is most often seen in cameos and intaglios, where its contrasting layers lend themselves beautifully to carving. If you’re drawn to antique or heritage-style jewelry, or you’re looking for something with genuine historical depth, sardonyx is a meaningful choice that connects the wearer to a very long tradition.

How to Choose the Right August Birthstone

With three options available, the choice really comes down to personal style, how the piece will be worn, and what meaning you want it to carry. A few things worth considering:

• For everyday wear: Spinel’s hardness (8 on the Mohs scale) makes it exceptionally durable. Peridot, at 6.5–7, is wearable but benefits from a protective setting.
• For a classic, recognizable gift: Peridot’s distinct green is immediately associated with August and has broad, timeless appeal.
• For someone who loves history or vintage style: Sardonyx, particularly in a carved or cameo piece, carries centuries of meaning and craftsmanship.
• For a collector or gem enthusiast: Fine spinel — especially in red or vivid pink — is increasingly sought after and appreciates well in the market.

If you’re unsure, bringing the recipient’s existing jewelry in for a conversation about their taste and style is always a worthwhile first step. That’s exactly the kind of guidance our team is here to provide.

Caring for Your August Birthstone Jewelry

Each of these three stones has slightly different care requirements, and knowing the basics will keep your jewelry looking its best for years.

• Peridot should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and steam, which can stress the stone. It is also sensitive to rapid temperature changes.
• Spinel is quite robust and can typically be cleaned ultrasonically, though a gentle warm soapy soak and a soft brush is always safe and sufficient.
• Sardonyx is best cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid prolonged soaking or harsh chemicals, which can affect the stone’s surface over time.

If your birthstone piece needs professional cleaning, a prong check, or any repair work, our jewelers at both our Wildwood and Cape May Court House locations are glad to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does August have three birthstones?

August originally had sardonyx as its single birthstone, dating back to early birthstone lists. Peridot was added as the primary modern birthstone in the early twentieth century and has since become the most widely recognized gem for the month. Spinel was added by the American Gem Trade Association in 2016 to reflect its growing appreciation among jewelers and collectors — and to give August-born buyers a broader range of beautiful options.

Is peridot an expensive gemstone?

Peridot is generally one of the more affordable colored gemstones, which makes it an excellent choice for meaningful gifts that don’t require a significant investment. Larger stones with deep, saturated green color command higher prices, but fine peridot jewelry is accessible at a wide range of budgets. That accessibility is part of what has made it such a popular birthstone gift for generations.

Can birthstone jewelry be worn every day?

It depends on the stone and the setting. Spinel is durable enough for daily wear in most settings. Peridot is wearable but does better in bezel or halo settings that offer some protection against knocks. Sardonyx, particularly in carved pieces, should be treated with a bit more care. A knowledgeable jeweler can help you choose a setting that suits both the stone and your lifestyle.

Can I have a custom piece made with an August birthstone?

Absolutely. Custom design is one of the most meaningful ways to mark a milestone, and birthstones lend themselves beautifully to personalized pieces — whether that’s a simple solitaire pendant, a stacking ring, or a more elaborate design incorporating multiple stones. Our team can walk you through the design process from concept to finished piece.

If you have questions about August birthstones or you’re ready to find the right piece for someone special, we’d love to help. Stop into M.S. Brown Jewelers in Wildwood or Cape May Court House and spend a few minutes with our team — there’s no pressure, just honest guidance from people who genuinely enjoy what they do. You’re always welcome to call ahead as well if you’d like to set up a time to talk through your ideas.