I expected to learn that August’s birthstone was as valuable as July’s (which is ruby.) Instead, I learned that there are two birthstones for August, one traditional and one modern. Today I want to describe August’s traditional birthstone, the sardonyx.
You may never have heard of sardonyx, but you may have heard of onyx. Onyx is a common black gem. Sardonyx is a variation of onyx, but it is a red and brown-banded gem. It belongs to the chalcedony cryptocrystalline quartz family and is quite lovely.
While this gemstone is not as valuable or rare as rubies or diamonds, it is known as a talisman in many cultures. People who wear sardonyx may feel brave and daring and have added confidence. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx stones engraved with Mars, the God of War, so that they would be courageous, fearless, and victorious. People in ancient Egypt used the earthy gemstone as a talisman to ward off evil.
Today, some believe that sardonyx can ensure a happy marriage and bring financial rewards, and it is used for healing. Whether or not any of this is true, it is a lovely stone, and I’d proudly wear it if I had an August birthday.