How Peridot and Sardonyx differ in what they are, color, hardness and care.
| Peridot | Sardonyx | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A gem form of the mineral olivine, one of the few gems found in only one color family: green. | A banded chalcedony quartz with alternating layers of sard and onyx, used for jewelry, seals and cameos. |
| Birthstone for | August | August |
| Colors | Vivid green with slight golden undertones; Golden green; Lime | Bands of reddish brown, cream, black and white; clean, well defined layers are valued most |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5 to 7 | 6.5 to 7 |
| Toughness | Fair to good. Wear with care to avoid scratches and hard blows. | Not stated |
| Everyday wear | Wear with care | Wear with care |
| Ultrasonic cleaner | Not recommended | Not covered by AGS |
| Main sources | Arizona (US), Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma), China | India, Brazil, Uruguay, Germany |
| Common treatments | Not stated | Not stated |
Both are August birthstones, so either makes a fitting gift. Choose by the color you love and how the piece will be worn; for a ring worn every day, the tougher stone will last better.
Sources: GIA: Peridot care and cleaning, AGS: Peridot, AGS: Sardonyx, AGS: Sardonyx. Checked October 16, 2026.
Birthstone of the month
On the first of each month: that month's birthstone, what it means and how to care for it.
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