August Birthstones Part Two
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
The original birthstone for August is a gemstone you may not have heard of, sardonyx, and it was widely known in the ancient world.
What is Sardonyx?
Sardonyx is two types of chalcedony coming together in one gemstone, sard and onyx.
Sardonyx contains the bands of dark brownish red to brown to orange of sard coupled with white and/or black bands of onyx.
Fine sardonyx is found in India with Germany, Brazil, Madagascar, Czechoslovakia, Uruguay, and the United States being other places to find it.
Historical Significance
Sardonyx was a popular gemstone that carvers used to create cameos and intaglios in the ancient world.
Roman officials used sardonyx for their wax seals and signet rings because wax did not stick to it, and Roman soldiers often wore sardonyx carved with the god Mars for protection in battle. It was also known to represent the strength of spiritual life.
What You Need to Know
If you are someone who wants a unique jewelry design that has an organic appeal, sardonyx is a great gemstone to use! The unique bands of each one create a one-of-a-kind design.
Often times today, sardonyx is dyed, so the high heat of jewelry repair and ultra sonics should be used with caution.
What Next?
I would love to help you explore the colors of sardonyx with your special purchase or custom design! Angela Cisneros Jewelry Concierge brings back the joy and confidence of jewelry shopping, so that you can celebrate with ease! My by-appointment approach means:
One-on-one appointments (personal attention and no crowds!)
Discretion and privacy (surprises remain surprises!)
Expert help from a Graduate Gemologist with 29 years of experience (yep, that’s me!)
Learn more about me and my process: www.AngelaCisneros.com
Book your FREE appointment with me today! www.AngelaCisneros.com/book-appointment
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