August Birthstones: The Vibrant Beauty of Peridot and Spinel
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- Angara Pear Peridot Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K Yellow Gold
- Peora 14K Yellow Gold Peridot Stud Earrings 2.00 Carats
- Gem Stone King Natural Pink Spinel Ring in 925 Sterling Silver
- Ross-Simons Peridot Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
- Dazzlingrock Collection Natural Red Spinel Stud Earrings in 10K Gold
- FANCIME 14K White Gold Peridot Ring with Diamond Halo
- Effy Collection Peridot and Diamond Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
- Natural Blue Spinel Pendant in Sterling Silver
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When Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted in 2018, it literally rained gemstones. Residents found tiny green peridots scattered across streets and beaches—nature's most dramatic birthday gift for August babies.
Peridot, with its signature lime-green glow, is one of few gemstones formed deep in Earth's mantle and delivered to the surface by volcanic fire. Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun." August's second birthstone—spinel, added to the lineup in 2016—has an even more dramatic story: famous "rubies" in royal crown jewels, including the Black Prince's Ruby, later proved to be spinel. When selecting August birthstone jewelry like a peridot pendant with diamond halo or vibrant pink spinel ring, you're choosing gems with cosmic and royal heritage.
Why are peridot and spinel such distinctive August birthstones?
Peridot holds a unique place in the gem world—it's one of few gemstones formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Even more remarkably, peridot has been found in meteorites that fell from outer space, making it truly a cosmic gemstone. In Hawaii, peridot is known as the "tears of Pele," the goddess of fire and volcanoes. Hawaii's Papakolea Beach is one of only two green sand beaches in the world, entirely composed of olivine (the mineral form of peridot). When Kilauea volcano erupted in 2018, it literally rained peridot, with residents finding tiny green gems scattered on streets and beaches.
Spinel's story is one of hidden identity. For centuries, spinel was confused with ruby and sapphire because they often form in the same geological conditions. Some of history's most famous "rubies" are actually spinels—including the Black Prince's Ruby and Timur Ruby in the British Crown Jewels. Once this was discovered, rather than diminishing spinel's value, it earned the gem respect in its own right. In India, spinel is believed to provide protection and mental peace. The gem was officially recognized as an August birthstone in 2016, celebrating both its beauty and its fascinating history. Take our birthstone quiz to discover which August stone matches your personality.
What is the history of August's birthstones?
Peridot jewelry dates back to the second millennium BC in ancient Egypt, where it was mined on a volcanic island in the Red Sea called Topazios (now Zabargad or St. John's Island). The Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun," believing it protected wearers from terrors of the night. Interestingly, historians believe some of Cleopatra's famous "emeralds" may actually have been peridots, as the two green gems were often confused in ancient times. Peridot remained popular through the ages, appearing in medieval churches and Renaissance jewelry.
Spinel's history is intertwined with royalty, though often under assumed identities. The 170-carat Black Prince's Ruby, set in Britain's Imperial State Crown, has adorned English royalty since the 14th century—yet it's actually a red spinel. The 352-carat Timur Ruby, bearing the names of emperors who owned it engraved on its surface, is also spinel. Rather than controversy, these revelations have increased appreciation for spinel as a gem that captivated rulers for centuries. Major deposits exist in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, with vivid red and cobalt blue being the most prized colors. Compare August's gems with July's ruby in our complete birthstone guide.
How to select the most stunning August birthstone jewelry?
For Peridot: Unlike many gems, peridot only comes in one color—green. However, the shade varies from yellow-green to olive to brownish-green. The most desirable peridots display a pure, vivid green without brown undertones. Eye-clean clarity is common and expected; avoid stones with visible inclusions. Arizona produces significant quantities of peridot, with Pakistani and Myanmar stones commanding premiums for exceptional color. Peridot is relatively affordable, making it accessible for larger statement pieces. The gem's fresh green works beautifully with yellow gold, which enhances its warm tones.
For Spinel: Spinel occurs in an extraordinary range of colors: vivid red, hot pink, bright orange, purple, violet, blue, and even black. Vivid red spinel is most valuable, followed by cobalt blue, bright pink, and orange. Unlike ruby, fine red spinel is rarely treated, making it an excellent choice for collectors seeking natural gems. Spinel displays excellent brilliance and fire, rivaling more expensive stones. Clarity should be eye-clean for transparent varieties. At 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is harder than peridot and suitable for all jewelry types, including daily-wear rings.
The key difference for jewelry purposes: peridot (6.5-7 Mohs hardness) requires more careful handling and is better suited for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, while spinel's durability (8 Mohs) makes it suitable for any jewelry application.
What are key considerations when selecting August birthstone jewelry?
Quality Comparison:
| Factor | Peridot | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 6.5-7 | 8 |
| Color Range | Green only | Full spectrum |
| Treatment | Rarely treated | Rarely treated |
| Clarity | Eye-clean expected | Eye-clean expected |
| Price | Moderate | Varies by color |
| Best For | Earrings, pendants | All jewelry types |
Metal Pairings:
- Peridot: Yellow gold enhances warm tones; white gold creates modern contrast
- Red/Pink Spinel: Rose gold or yellow gold complement warm hues
- Blue Spinel: White gold or platinum maximize color impact
Care Instructions:
- Peridot: Clean with warm, soapy water and soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Sensitive to acids, including perspiration over time—wipe after wearing. Store separately from harder gems. Not recommended for daily-wear rings.
- Spinel: More durable; safe for warm soapy water cleaning. Generally safe for ultrasonic cleaning. Store separately to prevent scratching other gems. Suitable for all jewelry types including daily wear.
Setting Recommendations:
- For peridot, protective bezel settings or pendant/earring designs offer the best longevity
- Spinel's durability allows for any setting style, including prong-set engagement rings
- Both gems pair beautifully with diamond accents in halo or three-stone designs
Whether you prefer peridot's fresh green in stud earrings, a summery peridot tennis bracelet, or spinel's vibrant colors in red spinel studs or a rare blue spinel pendant, August birthstones offer exceptional beauty and value. For statement pieces, a peridot halo ring or elegant peridot drop earrings showcase this summery gem beautifully. Both stones make meaningful gifts for August birthdays and the 22nd wedding anniversary. Explore elegant pendant necklaces to showcase these colorful gems.
Angara Pear Peridot Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K Yellow Gold
Angara Pear Peridot Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K Yellow Gold
This stunning pendant features a pear-shaped natural peridot surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
This stunning pendant features a pear-shaped natural peridot surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo. The vivid lime-green peridot catches light beautifully. Set in warm 14K yellow gold with an 18-inch chain.
"The peridot color is so vibrant and fresh! The diamond halo adds beautiful sparkle.
Peora 14K Yellow Gold Peridot Stud Earrings 2.00 Carats
Peora 14K Yellow Gold 2 00 Carats
These bright stud earrings feature genuine round-cut peridots totaling 2.
These bright stud earrings feature genuine round-cut peridots totaling 2.00 carats. Set in 14K yellow gold that complements the green beautifully. Secure push-back closures for comfortable wear.
"Such a cheerful, summery green! Perfect for August birthdays or anyone who loves color.
Gem Stone King Natural Pink Spinel Ring in 925 Sterling Silver
Gem Stone King Natural in 925 Sterling Silver
This elegant ring features a natural pink spinel with vibrant color and excellent clarity.
This elegant ring features a natural pink spinel with vibrant color and excellent clarity. The cushion-cut stone displays the rich color that made spinel famous. Set in 925 sterling silver.
"The pink color is stunning—so vibrant and clear. Love having a less common gemstone!
Ross-Simons Peridot Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
Ross Simons in Sterling Silver
This fresh, summery bracelet features a continuous line of genuine peridots set in sterling silver.
This fresh, summery bracelet features a continuous line of genuine peridots set in sterling silver. The lime-green stones create a bright, cheerful statement. Secure box clasp with safety latch.
"The color is perfect summer green! The bracelet has nice weight and looks beautiful.
Dazzlingrock Collection Natural Red Spinel Stud Earrings in 10K Gold
Dazzlingrock Collection Natural Red Spinel Stud Earrings in 10K Gold
These stunning studs feature natural red spinels with the vivid color that was once mistaken for ruby.
These stunning studs feature natural red spinels with the vivid color that was once mistaken for ruby. The round-cut stones display excellent brilliance. Set in 10K gold with secure backs.
"Gorgeous red color! It's amazing these were once confused with rubies—equally beautiful.
FANCIME 14K White Gold Peridot Ring with Diamond Halo
FANCIME 14K White Gold Peridot Ring with Diamond Halo
This elegant ring features a cushion-cut peridot surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
This elegant ring features a cushion-cut peridot surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo. The combination of cool white gold and warm green peridot creates beautiful contrast. Perfect statement piece.
"The peridot is eye-catching and the diamond halo makes it even more special.
Effy Collection Peridot and Diamond Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
Effy Collection Peridot and Diamond Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped peridots accented with sparkling diamonds.
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped peridots accented with sparkling diamonds. The combination creates movement and catches light beautifully. Set in 14K yellow gold.
"The drops have beautiful movement and the peridots have such lovely color.
Natural Blue Spinel Pendant in Sterling Silver
Natural in Sterling Silver
This unique pendant features a rare natural blue spinel with exceptional color reminiscent of sapphire.
This unique pendant features a rare natural blue spinel with exceptional color reminiscent of sapphire. The oval-cut stone displays the brilliance spinel is known for. Includes an 18-inch sterling chain.
"Such a beautiful blue! Love having a unique gemstone that's not the typical choice.
Review of Our Favorite 3
Angara Pear Peridot Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K Yellow Gold
This stunning pendant features a pear-shaped natural peridot surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
Peora 14K Yellow Gold 2 00 Carats
These bright stud earrings feature genuine round-cut peridots totaling 2.
Gem Stone King Natural in 925 Sterling Silver
This elegant ring features a natural pink spinel with vibrant color and excellent clarity.
About the Author
Alfreda Borror
Alfreda Borror is an avid admirer of the finer things in life, and has an unending appreciation for luxury. Her considerable skills lie in design and fashion, having spent years working as a costume designer for both theatre and film.
