August is one of the rare months that offers not one but three recognized birthstones — peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Of the three, peridot is the most widely celebrated, and for good reason: its vivid, grassy green is unlike any other gem. If you were born in August, or you’re shopping for someone who was, this guide will help you understand what makes these stones special and how to choose a piece you’ll treasure for years.

Peridot: The Stone of Light

Peridot (pronounced PAIR-ih-dot) is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only a single color — green — though the specific shade ranges from a bright, lime-tinged yellow-green to a deeper, richer olive. That color comes from iron within the crystal structure itself, not from trace impurities as in many other gems. The more iron present, the deeper and more golden the tone.

What sets peridot apart geologically is its origin. Unlike most gemstones formed in the Earth’s crust, peridot crystallizes in the upper mantle and is carried to the surface through volcanic activity. It has even been found in meteorites. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun” and mined it on the volcanic island of Zabargad for thousands of years. That connection to the Earth’s fiery interior gives peridot a history as rich as its color.

What to Look for in a Quality Peridot

When evaluating peridot, the same general principles of color, clarity, cut, and carat weight apply — though each plays out a little differently than with diamonds.

• Color: The most prized peridots are a pure, saturated green with minimal yellow or brown undertones. A vivid, medium-toned green is generally considered the finest. Stones that appear too yellow or too dark can lack brilliance.
• Clarity: Good-quality peridots are relatively clean to the eye. Small inclusions are common and acceptable, but stones with visible dark spots, cloudiness, or “lily pad” inclusions (small disc-shaped fractures) should be avoided unless priced accordingly.
• Cut: Peridot is often cut in ovals, cushions, and emerald cuts that show off its color. A well-proportioned cut allows light to move through the stone rather than leak out the sides or bottom.
• Carat weight: Peridot is relatively affordable at smaller sizes, but the finest, deeply saturated stones in larger sizes (above five carats) become considerably rarer and more valuable.

Spinel and Sardonyx: The Other August Birthstones

Spinel was added to the official August birthstone list in 2016, and it deserves far more attention than it typically receives. Historically, many famous “rubies” in royal collections — including stones set in British Crown Jewels — were later identified as red spinels. The gem occurs in a wide range of colors, from vivid reds and hot pinks to lavender and deep blue, and its brilliance rivals that of sapphire and ruby. For an August birthday gift with a bit of drama, a fine spinel is a compelling choice.

Sardonyx, the traditional August stone, is a banded variety of onyx with layers of reddish-brown sard and white or black. It has a long history as a stone for carved cameos and signet rings and carries a grounded, classical appeal. While less common in contemporary fine jewelry, it remains a meaningful and distinctive option for those drawn to antique or artisanal styles.

Choosing the Right Setting and Metal

Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale — softer than sapphire or diamond, but durable enough for regular wear with reasonable care. Protective settings such as bezel or halo styles are a smart choice for rings, as they help shield the stone from chips. Earrings and pendants are naturally lower-impact and can showcase peridot beautifully in more open, prong-set designs.

In terms of metal, yellow gold has been the traditional pairing for peridot, and it remains a warm, flattering choice that echoes the stone’s earthy warmth. White gold and platinum offer a cleaner contrast that makes the green pop more dramatically. Rose gold, with its soft warmth, is a contemporary option that works particularly well with olive-toned stones.

Spinel, because of its wider color range, pairs well with any metal depending on the stone’s color. A red or pink spinel in rose gold is striking; a blue or gray spinel in white gold or platinum reads as modern and refined.

Caring for Your August Birthstone Jewelry

Peridot should be cleaned gently with mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, which can damage the stone. Store peridot pieces away from harder gems like diamonds or sapphires that could scratch the surface. Spinel is somewhat harder and more durable but benefits from the same gentle care routine. As with any fine jewelry, bringing your piece in for a professional inspection once a year is a good habit — clasps, prongs, and settings can wear subtly over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is peridot a durable enough stone for everyday wear?

Peridot is suitable for everyday wear in lower-impact settings like earrings, pendants, and bracelets. For rings worn daily, a protective setting — such as a bezel or a halo — is recommended, and it is wise to remove the piece during activities that could subject it to hard knocks. With reasonable care, a well-set peridot ring can last a lifetime.

How does peridot compare in value to other green gems like emerald or tsavorite?

Peridot is generally much more affordable than emerald or tsavorite garnet of comparable size, making it an accessible option for those who love green gems. That affordability does not diminish its beauty — fine peridot can be genuinely striking — but it does mean you can often acquire a larger, eye-clean stone for a modest budget compared to the other green alternatives.

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

Absolutely. Peridot and spinel lend themselves well to custom design, whether you are looking to incorporate a specific stone shape, pair the birthstone with diamonds, or recreate a family heirloom. A jeweler experienced in custom work can help you select the stone and design a setting that reflects the wearer’s personal style.

Why does August have three birthstones when most months have one or two?

Birthstone lists have evolved over time as different organizations — notably the American Gem Society and the Jewelers of America — have updated their standards to recognize additional gems with historical or cultural significance. Sardonyx was the original August stone, peridot became the primary modern choice, and spinel was added in 2016 in recognition of its long and distinguished history as a fine gemstone that had been unjustly overlooked.

Whether you’re drawn to peridot’s sunlit green, the vivid drama of a fine spinel, or the classic character of sardonyx, August birthstone jewelry makes a deeply personal and lasting gift. At M.S. Brown Jewelers, our team is happy to walk you through your options, show you stones side by side, and help you find exactly the right piece for the occasion. Stop by our showrooms in Wildwood or Cape May Court House — we’d love to help you find something worth keeping.