Those born in August are fortunate to have a choice of three stunning birthstones: pearlescent peach sardonyx, vibrant green peridot, and romantic red spinel.
What is the Virgo Birthstone?
Virgo is the 6th sign of the zodiac. Those born between August 23rd and September 22nd share the sign of Virgo. The element for Virgo is earth and the ruling planet is Mercury. The Virgo birthstone is the Blue Sapphire, a precious gem that means inner vision and clarity.
The maiden fair captures the patient and ever just energy of all those sweet summer babes born as the sun arcs across the sky bringing with it the bounty of the harvest. Virgos are unflinching in their kindness and ever ready to see the brightest and best in everyone. This earth sign is solid, reliable, and understand exactly how to take their responsibilities seriously. If anyone wants anything done - the Virgo is the one they turn to. This gentle-hearted nature and commitment to the task at hand help to make Virgos a fabulous friend and always someone to rely on.
Ruled by Mercury, Virgos are critical thinkers (it’s how they get stuff done) but with this penchant for problem-solving, it can lead to a tendency to overthink just about everything. Virgos could sometimes use a break from their own head or could welcome in healing balance so they rely more on leading with their heart space and an already developed sense of sublime intuition. In short, if Virgos could learn to trust their instincts more, they would save a whole lot of headspace. Virgos can also use a heck of a lot of energy in the worry stone. They are a sign that stays solid to the ground thanks to their earthly element but also can spin out into disaster thinking. Virgos have a huge swelling heart space and those deep-felt connections to others are certainly shown in their adoration of helping people. At the crux of it they really do want the best for those in their life which makes them awesome.
When it comes to healing their own sharp edges, a little less worry and letting standards slide can definitely put Virgos on track to turning that gentle energy in on themselves.
Read also: Peridot gemstone guide
Virgo's array of precious stones are chosen for their promise of balance, inner healing, and lending a helping hand in pulling Virgos away from the darker side of perfectionism. Wanting things perfect can be a positive thing when it pushes you to work hard and succeed, but it can also lead to discontentment and being harsher on yourself than necessary. These healing crystals are here to wash away negative energy and to help you embrace your more sympathetic side.
The mainstay stone for all Virgos, this precious gem knows exactly how to conduct all the energies of Mercury. Mercury is known for its creative radiance and its ability to unravel blocks in communication. The beautiful Blue Sapphire captures all this and more. The sapphire is a stone of truth and sincerity (sound like anyone you know?). It also helps lend insight to those Virgos ever on a quest for perfectionism, gifting them the peripheral vision they need to soak up the big picture rather than getting drawn into the depths of tunnel vision.
Earthy and rich, the tree green shades of Moss Agate are a welcome home for Virgos. Ever the earth sign, Moss Agate strengthens that connection with the softer side of nature, inviting Virgos to step back from their tasks and simply enjoy the world around them. This gentle green stone also opens up the heart space, reminding Virgos to get out of their head for a while and back into their heart.
Trio Oval Peridot Bracelet
Ripe with positive energies, there are a thousand things that Virgos will adore about the glimmering green of Peridot. Ever a good luck charm, the Peridot gemstone is here to ensure that all fine things flow towards Virgos. Also ruled by the planet Mercury, Peridot invites the creative yet sometimes critical Virgos to lay down the sword of expectation and perfectionism and to simply let things be, trusting in the universe that all will be well.
Read also: Men's Virgo Tattoos
Forever fretting when things don’t go meticulously the way it was planned, Citrine is another stone that encourages Virgos to wave farewell to that perfectionist nature. Sure, sometimes perfectionism is a glorious driving force to living in the fullest light of your intent, but other times it can stop you from seeing all that you have. Citrine with its sunny and bright nature invites you to always see the positive and to let go of any negative energy clutched in hand.
For Virgos who may need a little soft and intuitive guidance when it comes to the powers of communication. Good-hearted souls, Virgos certainly are but they can come across a little judge-like thanks to their straightforward no-nonsense attitude to problem-solving. Amazonite can help their communication to hit the mark a little softer. Amazonite is also a beautiful balancing stone and has strong earth vibes, exactly what a Virgo craves.
Healing gemstones picked specifically with Virgos in mind can bring that bountiful sense of prosperity and keep Virgos from tumbling into the rabbit hole of perfectionism.
When a gemstone is touching the skin without any barriers in place, it can connect with your vibrations and send healing exactly where it is needed. Like all healing crystals, Virgo birthstones will also require cleansing and charging to keep them working at the top of their power game. Imagine your crystals are a vacuum and that you are doing a complete spring clean of your inner house to clear out the cobwebs of negative thoughts. Just like a vacuum, your crystals sometimes need to be emptied or discharged from the energies they have soaked up. Discharging your crystals is super easy, you just run it under a stream of water for a couple of moments. For those more delicate crystals and quartzes, you can also smudge with sage or your favorite smudging herb.
These stones are here to help illuminate all your best bits, helping you on the pathway to achieving your vision of success. They are also here to remind you not to get lost in the endless pursuit of perfectionism. There are many ways to win in life and getting stuck in a singular idea may lead to excess worry and not appreciating the beauty of all the moments in-between.
Read also: Exploring Virgo
Peridot, spinel and sardonyx are the three birthstones for August. August has three birthstones due to historical tradition, gemstone availability, and the evolving preferences of the jewelry industry. While most months have one or two stones associated with them, August offers a diverse array of colors, symbolism, and unique histories through its three gemstones.
The concept of birthstones has a rich history that spans many cultures, beliefs, and centuries. The tradition of associating specific gemstones with birth months can be traced back to ancient times, with early references found in religious texts, folklore, and historical writings. The idea originally emerged from the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Bible’s Book of Exodus. This sacred breastplate, worn by Aaron, the High Priest of the Israelites, featured twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
The modern concept of birthstones as we know it today began to take shape in the 18th century in Poland, where Jewish gem traders started associating specific gemstones with each month of the year. This tradition gradually spread across Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.
In 1952, the list was updated by the American Gem Society (AGS) to include newly discovered and popular gemstones, and in 2016, spinel was added as an official birthstone for August, joining peridot and sardonyx. These updates reflect both the evolution of gemstone availability and shifting consumer preferences.
Assigning gemstones to months has historically been influenced by a combination of factors, including astrological beliefs, cultural symbolism, and the availability of gemstones in various regions. In ancient cultures, gemstones were believed to have mystical properties, and wearing the stone associated with one’s birth month was thought to provide enhanced protection and blessings.
In modern times, the selection of birthstones has also been shaped by the commercial jewelry industry, which considers factors like gem availability, popularity, and marketing potential when determining which stones are associated with each month. For example, some months, like August, have more than one birthstone due to cultural preferences, historical significance, and gemstone discoveries.
Throughout history, birthstones have been more than just ornamental; they have carried deep symbolic and cultural significance. In ancient times, gemstones were believed to possess healing properties and magical powers, including the ability to ward off evil spirits, enhance personal attributes, and protect against harm. This belief extended to birthstones, with each stone being linked to certain energies and benefits that were thought to be particularly potent for individuals born in the corresponding month.
August’s Primary Birthstone: Peridot
August’s primary birthstone is peridot, a light lime to deep olive green gemstone that symbolizes good fortune. Peridot is born out of olivine, a common mineral sourced from volcanoes. All peridot comes from either deep in the earth’s mantle or from pallasite meteorites. While peridot from meteorites is very rare, peridot from underground is plentiful, even on American soil-namely in Arizona’s San Carlos Reservation, which supplies an estimated 80-95% of the world’s peridot.
Peridot Cushion Cut Ring
Outside of the United States, peridot is sourced from China, Pakistan, Myanmar and Brazil. The stone has also been found in Australia, Mexico, Norway, Kenya and Sri Lanka. Peridot’s vivid color is ideal for fine gemstone jewelry and makes a perfect gift choice.
Peridot has an extensive history, with its earliest recorded use dating back to 1500 B.C. in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians referred to it as the “gem of the sun,” believing it had protective powers against evil spirits and brought joy to the wearer. This gem was mined on the island of Zabargad (now known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. The Egyptians harvested peridot during the night, as they believed it would be more visible under the moonlight.
Peridot may originate from the Greek word peridona, which means “giving plenty.” In ancient Hawaiian times, peridot crystals were thought to be the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess. Ancient Greeks and Romans used peridot in their rings, pendants and other jewelry, believing it bestowed nobility.
Thanks to these magical myths, peridot has come to symbolize strength, opportunity, peace and prosperity, making August babies quite lucky and in good, protective company.
Peridot has a history of being confused with emerald, and many historians claim that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection actually included peridot gems.
Master Cut Premier 5.00 ct tw Peridot Ring 14K Gold
Peridot Color, Characteristics & Care
Many gemstones get their range of colors from trace impurities and outside elements, but not peridot. Its vibrant, light green color comes from the iron found in olivine. These subtle shades stroll between yellow-green and brownish-green, depending on the amount of iron. No reds, blues, or other primary colors here!
Peridot is the yellowish green to greenish yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. The preferred color for peridot is a pure “grass” green without any hint of yellow or brown. The large (364 ct) crystal is from the historic Red Sea source, Zabargad.
Peridot’s symbolic importance spans cultures and time periods. In Hawaii, it was considered the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess, and linked to the fiery creation of the islands. In medieval Europe, peridot was used to adorn church relics, as it was believed to have healing and protective properties.
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, specifically the magnesium-rich form of the mineral. It typically contains iron, which gives it its characteristic yellow-green hue. Its unique color, unlike other gemstones, remains consistent under both natural and artificial light. The refractive index of peridot ranges from 1.65 to 1.69, giving it a brilliant, glassy luster.
Peridot is associated with themes of positivity, renewal, and growth. Its bright, green hue is connected to nature, symbolizing new beginnings, abundance, and good health. It is believed to foster compassion, enhance relationships, and inspire creativity. As a stone linked to the heart chakra, peridot is thought to promote emotional balance, self-love, and forgiveness. Additionally, it is known as the “money stone,” reputed to attract wealth and prosperity.
Peridot, sometimes referred to as the “evening emerald,” comes in at around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale and is quite durable in its finished form, making it a very wearable, everyday jewelry option. Of course, this doesn’t mean it won’t scratch if you aren’t careful. To clean your peridot jewelry, opt for mild soap and warm water.
With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of harness, peridot is softer than many gems and cannot take hard wear, so it is not recommended for daily use in a ring. This August birthstone can also be damaged by some acids and even by long-term exposure to acidic perspiration. Cleaning peridot is a delicate process. Never use a steam or ultrasonic cleaner, as your peridot birthstone is vulnerable to thermal shock. It is safest to use a s0ft-bristle brush with a mild dish soap in warm water.
Peridot is rated 6.5-7 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it’s durable and appropriate for everyday wear, with a little care. In 1822 Friedrich Mohs created this scale to rate gemstones from 1 (softest) to 10 (exceptionally hard), based on their ability to withstand scratches.
Peridot is known for its distinctive yellow-green hue, which can range from pale lime green to a richer olive shade. While peridot’s beautiful green color makes it an appealing choice for engagement rings, its softer nature (6.5-7 on the Mohs scale) means it requires more care and protection in everyday wear.
Peridot is believed to bring good luck, abundance, and positive energy. It is often associated with the heart chakra, promoting love, compassion, and emotional balance.
Maintain the beauty of your jewelry by keeping it clean. Use a non-abrasive jewelry cleaner or mild, dye-free dish soap and water. Let it soak in a small bowl for a few minutes, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush.
Keep your peridot clean by wiping it gently with a soft cloth.
Always store peridot separately from harder gemstones like diamonds and sapphires to prevent scratching. Clean peridot jewelry using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners and steamers should be avoided, as they can damage the stone.
August Birthstone Jewelry Gift Ideas
If you’re looking for a gift for a green-loving Leo (Aug. 1st-22nd) or Virgo (Aug. 23rd-31st) in your life, peridot gemstone jewelry is the perfect choice and comes in at more affordable prices than emeralds. If peridot is good enough for Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, it’s good enough for us!
Oval Peridot Stud Earrings
Peridot’s value is measured using the usual 4Cs of gem quality, especially color. The highest quality peridots are a pure green color, absent of any brown or yellow. Smaller stone sizes are the most affordable, with flawless 5+ carat peridots being the rarest and most expensive. It’s said that the Smithsonian harbors a whopping 310 carat peridot. Lucky for us, there’s plenty of peridot birthstone supply to fit any style and price range.
If you want to honor the stone’s mythological heritage, consider a peridot piece of fine jewelry set in gold for extra healing power, such as our Pear-Shaped Peridot Threader Earrings in 14k Yellow Gold. Or, choose a sterling silver piece to highlight this August birthstone’s olive brilliance, as in our stunning Trio Oval Peridot Bracelet.
Peridot’s vibrant color makes it a standout addition to any jewelry collection. It pairs beautifully with both gold and silver settings, allowing for diverse styling options. For formal events, a peridot necklace in a classic gold setting creates a striking focal point, especially when paired with a black or dark green dress. To create a boho-chic aesthetic, consider layering peridot bracelets with other gemstone bangles, such as turquoise or coral. This combination of colors evokes a playful, beachy vibe perfect for summer.
Peridot is particularly popular in pendants and earrings. Whether worn as a statement ring, a delicate pendant, or stud earrings, peridot adds a fresh, youthful touch to any ensemble. Its warm tones pair well with gold settings, while its versatility allows Virgos to incorporate it into both casual and formal looks.
Pear Peridot Threader Earrings
For elegant evening wear, a red spinel ring set in platinum or white gold can make a bold statement, especially when paired with a dark, formal gown. Blue spinel necklaces or earrings add a touch of sophistication to cocktail dresses, while pink spinel pieces create a playful, feminine vibe that pairs well with floral prints or pastel outfits. For a more casual look, black spinel offers an edgy touch that pairs well with leather accessories or darker, minimalist attire.
To keep your peridot jewelry in great condition, regular care is essential.