Peridot and Spinel are the birthstones for August, and we're sure you'll want to know everything you can about these gorgeous gems. In addition, you will undoubtedly be aware of the history and facts that explain why these two birthstones may be perfect for your next jewelry.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot is the traditional birthstone for August, and it's no surprise that this gemstone has been around for a long time. The ancient Egyptians first discovered peridot—its beauty and luster so took them that they believed it had magical properties. It was even called "the gem of the sun."
The word "peridot" comes from the French word for "gem," which in turn comes from the Arabic word for "gem." So peridots are an olive-green variety of olivine, one of the most common minerals on Earth. They are sometimes called chrysolite, a Greek term for light green stones.
Most peridot used in jewelry comes from China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the U.S. Still, some came to Earth on meteorites. Others are found in exotic settings like Peridot Beach, Hawaii, where the sands are green.
Amazing Facts About Peridot
The name is derived from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "jewel."
Peridot is the only gem with only one color. You may observe a variety of peridot hues and clarity and transparency levels, but they will all be green.
The color green is a product of iron in its creation.
It is the traditional 16th wedding anniversary gift.
IO Collective Jewelry: Custom Peridot Ring in White Gold and Diamonds
The natural green color of peridot is associated with harmony, good health, pleasant sleep, and tranquility. Peridot gemstones are considered to help the wearer focus on attaining their goals or enhancing their thinking and emotional well-being.
This stone was also thought to protect its owner from nightmares when set in gold. Supposedly, it frees the mind of thoughts of envy, which can harm and strain relationships. Moreover, peridot is considered to help with depression.
Peridot is one of the world's most popular birthstones, especially regarding engagement rings. This green gemstone is said to bring good luck and protection from evil spirits, which makes it an ideal choice when you're looking for an engagement ring. But, of course, it can also be used in other types of jewelry, especially when paired with other gems like diamonds or rubies!
Spinel: The Most Undervalued Gem
Spinel is a modern birthstone for August. It may easily be named "Most Undervalued Gem" and not get enough recognition. Because it has been mass-produced synthetically since the 1930s, many people have forgotten about it, leading some to equate it with 'cheapness.' In reality, natural spinel is a rare and gorgeous stone. It's an oxide mineral with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for engagement rings.
IO Collective Jewelry: Lena Ring in 18kt Yellow Gold with a Blue Spinel and Diamonds
Despite long being overlooked by ruby and sapphire, spinel is finally receiving its appreciation. It is frequently confused with corundum, the gemstone family to which rubies and sapphires belong. This mistake originated due to their striking color likeness and the fact that they are frequently spotted in the same regions. Spinel, on the other hand, is chemically distinct from ruby and sapphire.
The word "spinel" comes from an Arabic word meaning "lucky stone." The first spinels were mined in Sri Lanka but have also been found in Thailand, Burma, and Vietnam. Also, spinel has lately been identified in Africa, Australia, and Russia, among other locations.
“The energy of spinel is the energy of beauty.” -Judy Hall
IO Collective Jewelry: Avery 3 Tier Earring Studs in 14kt Yellow Gold with Multi Colors Sri Lanka Spinels
Amazing Facts About Spinel
Spinel only became one of August's birthstones in 2016 after a Jewelers of America decision.
Some of history's greatest renowned rubies turned out to be spinel. Spinel was used as a crown jewel for the Black Prince's crown, which at the time was believed to be a ruby and was therefore known as Black Prince's Ruby.
Spinel is frequently mistaken for ruby, costing between one-half and one-third of the average price of this gemstone.
It is the traditional 22nd wedding anniversary gift.
Although many connect diamonds with love, the red spinel is a natural symbol of love. It is thought that the stone helps individuals set aside their egos and become loyal to one another. The red hue of the gemstone is also associated with longevity, passion, and devotion, which is typical of red gems.
The red spinel is associated with the root chakra and is beneficial for increasing endurance, energy, mental stamina, memory, and cognitive ability.
IO Collective Gemstone: Coral Spinel
If you're looking for something more casual but still beautiful, then peridot or spinel would make great options too! So whether you're getting married or want something special to wear on your next date night with someone special (or anyone else!), these two gems are sure.
IO Collective also offers a bespoke jewelry design service. If you're interested in creating a piece of peridot or spinel jewelry in 18ct gold or platinum - Contact us with your ideas!
