August Birthstone: Peridot and Sardonyx

Introduction

August Birthstone: August is one of those fantastic months where you have not two but three birthstone selections. Peridot, sardonyx, and spinel gemstones and numerous exquisite jewellery alternatives are available as of August gemstones. Both of these stones have a long history and are loaded with meaning. However, both in terms of quality and content, the two birthstones are incredibly distinct.

Peridot comes in various colours, ranging from yellowish green to brown, although lime green and olive green are the most popular. On the other hand, the sardonyx birthstone, a kind of onyx, is a reddish brownstone with white banding. Sardonyx has a stone-like look, whilst peridots have a crystal-like appearance. So ladies born in August and those who purchase their presents now choose two gemstones- peridot and sardonyx.

Peridot birthstone for August

Peridot, the traditional August birthstone, is a bright green rock with a colourful history. The underappreciated peridot, formerly thought to be the "topaz" of academics like Pliny the Elder and the "emeralds" of Cleopatra's famous collection, is now receiving its due. The peridot birthstone ranges from a bright grassy hue to a rich olive green and is known as "evening emeralds" for its vivid brightness in low light.

It's olivine's gem variety, which is prized for its usage in meditation and Feng Shui. It can help people grasp major life transitions, mend damaged egos, and amplify the inner elements of any event. The warm, loving energy of peridot is utilised to build a protective zone around the body and provide good fortune to women during childbirth. 

The history of peridot

The majority of gemstones are formed in the earth's crust. However, Peridots, like diamonds, are formed deep down and transported to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot was mined as early as 1500 B.C., making it one of the oldest known gemstones. The first known source of peridot was a volcanic island off the coast of Egypt named Topazos (also dubbed Zabargad Island or St. John's Island).

The Hawaiian island of Oahu was another early source of peridot, with small grains of the gem still washing up on the coast. Pakistan, Arizona, Norway, Mexico, Oregon, and Russia are all good suppliers of excellent peridot today. Peridot was known as the "Gem of the Sun" in ancient Egypt. Peridot gemstones and relics were used to protect the pharaohs' graves from the evil eye.

The peridot gemstone, often known as the "study stone," is thought to improve mental focus and give you the fortitude to continue, especially during challenging academic endeavours. It's also worn over the heart chakra to heal, remove destructive emotions, and open up to love as an antidepressant.

Buying peridot gemstone

• A bright, appealing green hue with no apparent inclusions is ideal. Unfortunately, Peridots above five flawless carats are extremely rare.
• When paired with blue topaz and aqua hues, or white pearls, peridot appears glistening and lovely.
• Like many other stones, Peridot takes on an entirely distinct appearance when set in yellow gold vs white gold or silver.
• The rich colour is the essential aspect in picking peridot, as it is with other coloured gemstones.
• Peridot can be brownish-green in colour. It is less expensive than brilliant green peridot. The brownish-green tint complements earth tones in clothes and may be combined with other gemstone beads in complementary colours.

August birthstone: Sardonyx

Sardonyx is a relatively unknown gemstone made up of alternating layers of sard and onyx. It's a transparent reddish-brown gemstone with white streaks running through it. Sard can be yellowish-red to reddish-brown in hue, depending on the amount of iron oxide present. Sardonyx is a good material for carving and is frequently used to make cameos. Sardonyx is the oldest ancient of the August birthstones, dating back more than 4,000 years to Egypt's Second Dynasty.

Sardonyx talismans etched with pictures of gods were worn by the ancient Greeks and Romans to protect them in combat. The Egyptians thought that the sardonyx could heal the body, particularly the bones. Sardonyx was linked with eloquence throughout the Renaissance. Public speakers and orators wore it to encourage clear thinking and communication.

Sardonyx is a very protective stone that is also linked to creativity, courage, and happiness. In addition, it has metaphysical qualities that boost self-assurance, motivation, and determination. The birthstone for August is a clear communication stone that offers stability to marriages and partnerships. Sardonyx may be found in India, Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States, among other places.

Buying Sardonyx gemstone

• Sardonyx is a somewhat soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 6.5. Instead of rings and bracelets, it looks better as earrings, pendants, and necklaces.
• Sardonyx lends itself nicely to create pendants with freeform shapes and beads that are mixed with gemstone beads of various hues, thanks to its earthy appearance.
• Cameos and other vintage sardonyx jewellery items include classic settings with carved sardonyx.
• Sardonyx and other gemstone beads are used in vintage necklaces, which is a unique way to wear this special birthstone.
• The contrast between the brown and white stripes in the best jewels is quite great. As a result, they might be transparent or opaque, and faults or fractures are uncommon.
• Bezel settings are commonly used on sardonyx pendants and earrings (a bezel is a metal frame around the gemstone).

Conclusion

IrisGems has a beautiful collection of August birthstone jewellery that will complement your particular style. Visit the shop to browse our collections or make your custom creations. We can assist you in finding the ideal present for someone special or treat yourself to a beautiful piece.