August birthstone: sardonyx, peridot, spinel
The August birthstone is sardonyx, which Flavius Josephus connects with the sun and the moon.
August at a glance
For you, a banded sardonyx or an olive-green peridot: the reminder of a month of light, warmth and harvest.
- 1912 list
- Sardonyx, Peridot
- Additions
- Spinel (2016)
The stones of August
What traditions associate with them
August shares sardonyx with carnelian, dominant in five of Kunz’s old lists against three for sardonyx. The most cited ancient text is that of Flavius Josephus, who sees in the two sardonyxes on the high priest’s shoulder the sun and the moon.
The 1912 list keeps sardonyx and makes peridot, until then a September stone, its alternative. Spinel is added in 2016.
The verses for the months offer carnelian a token of a happy home. Peridot remains, in the traditions, the stone tied to the sun and to light.
No stone has a proven effect on health: if you have a health concern, see a health professional.
August birthstone: your questions
Why is peridot the alternative stone for August?
In most of the old lists, peridot, which Kunz calls chrysolite, is the September stone. The 1912 list leaves it a place in August as an alternative and sends sapphire to September. Kunz regretted this move, which he judges arbitrary.
What is the August spinel?
Spinel is the most recent addition for August: it joins the list in 2016. Its profile gives its traditions and care. If this addition appeals to you, you can choose it just like sardonyx or peridot: none of the three has priority.
Your stone, your intention
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