August Birthstones

There are two birthstones for the summer month of August. The most commonly considered August birthstone is the peridot. When you go to the jewelry store and look in the birthstone section, this is the one you are most likely to see. The other stone considered a birthstone for this month is the sardonyx, according to the American Gem Society.
The peridot is a bright and brilliant green stone. Generally it looks like a lighter color than the far more expensive emerald, and it can also be seen in colors from yellow-green to brown. In the past it was believed to have magical powers which could heal people, stop nightmares, and bring power and influence. It is also said to bear its wearer a great year.
Peridot develops far underground. Volcanoes bring it up. Much of the peridot originated in Arizona in the United States of America. Additional locations where it is mined includes Myanmar, China and Pakistan.
Sardonyx is a type of onyx, however instead of the common black onyx, it has red/brown and white bands. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans would bring it while going into wars as talismans. It would have heroes like Mars engraved into it and was thought to bestow bravery and success to those who carried it.
A common use of sardonyx is the making of cameos. Its bandings make interesting pieces. It is also used in intaglios, which is a cameo in reverse.
Sardonyx is found in many different places around the globe. India boasts the best looking types. It can also be found in the United States, Czechoslovakia, Uruguay, Germany and Brazil.
A great gift for someone who is celebrating an August birthday is a piece of jewelry with a peridot in it. It will also work well in mother’s jewelry for a woman who gave birth in August.
The peridot is not as expensive as many of the gemstones such as sapphires and rubies. You can find pieces that look flawless and are very large. They have a lot of sparkle to them and can be found in wide selection in jewelry stores such as Piercing Pagoda.
Peridot is also often used in conjunction with other gemstones in pieces that make a rainbow. Alternatively, you could consider getting a piece of jewelry with a sardonyx if you want to get something different. A cameo would make a wonderful present for someone born in August.