What is the birthstone for August? These three gems represent the month of August.

People born in August can have one of two astrological signs: Leo (born between August 1 and August 22) or Virgo (born between August 23 and August 31). The gladiolus and poppy also represent those born in August. 

Each month also has at least one gemstone. For instance, April has the diamond, while July has the ruby.

But what about August's birthstone? 

Here's what you need to know about August's birthstones, including their colors, symbolism, meanings and more. 

What is August birthstone?

August has three birthstones: peridot, spinel and sardonyx. 

Peridot is a yellow-green gemstone that comes from the mineral olivine.

Its name derives from the Arabic word "faridat," which means "gem." However, some scholars believe peridot gets its name from the Greek word "peridona," which means “giving plenty.” This is fitting since the gemstone has been associated with prosperity and good fortune.

In the past, peridot was confused with other stones, such as topaz and emerald. In fact, some historians believe Cleopatra's emerald collection was actually peridot, according to the Geological Institute of America.

Peridot can found in many sites including China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States. The oldest-recorded source of peridot is the Egyptian island of Zabargad, according to GIA. 

Besides being the birthstone for August, peridot is often given as gifts for the sixteenth wedding anniversaries. 

What color is my birthstone?Learn which gemstone represents each month and what it means.

Spinel comes in a wide array of colors, including red, pink, orange, purple, blue and green. Due to its various forms, spinel has been mistaken for other gems. Some well-known rubies have even turned out to be red spinel, including the "Black Prince's Ruby" from the Imperial State Crown. 

The gem's name comes from the Latin word "spina," meaning "thorn," according to GIA. This references the shape of spinel crystals. 

Spinel can be found in many countries including Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania and Pakistan.

The symbolism of spinel differs depending on its color. For instance, red spinel is associated with passion and devotion. In some cases, people thought red spinel could soothe anger and bring harmony. It was also believed red spinel could help remedy all types of blood loss and inflammatory diseases.

Spinel is often given as a gift for the twenty-second wedding anniversary.

Sardonyx is a combination of the minerals sard and onyx, which together form the reddish-brown or orange stone with bands of white or black.

The gem's name is also a mix. "Sard" references the ancient city "Sardis," and "onyx" derives from the Greek word "onux," meaning “fingernail.”

Sardonyx was often used in Roman seals and signet rings during ancient times, according to GIA. During battle, Roman solider would wear sardonyx rings with Mars, the god of war, for protection. 

India, Brazil, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay and the U.S. are among many countries where sardonyx is produced, according to the American Gem Society. 

This birthstone is associated with courage and happiness. It is also believed sardonyx helps strengthen marriage and partnerships.