August Birthstones Peridot and Spinel: Meaning, Symbolism & More

An Introduction to August Birthstones

Those born in August can count their lucky stars. Not only is fall a gorgeous time of the year, but August babies are also blessed with two of the most captivating birthstones in the world: peridot and spinel.

In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about these stunning August birthstones.

August Birthstone Color

Peridot

Famous for its vibrant green hue, peridot is arguably the most iconic August birthstone. Its golden-honey undertone enhances the green, giving it a vivid, lime-like glow.

Often referred to as the Evening Emerald, peridot’s warm undertones make it especially radiant under low light.

The color saturation of this gemstone depends on its iron content — the more iron, the deeper the green.

Unlike many gemstones, peridot’s color is natural and not treated, making its refreshing green one of its most authentic and recognizable traits.

Spinel

Don’t want to limit yourself to green gemstones? Spinel has you covered. This August birthstone appears in a variety of colors — from deep reds and vibrant pinks to purples and blues.

Cobalt blue, violet, and colorless spinels are among the rarest, while red spinel is more commonly found.

Spinel is often mistaken for rubies, sapphires and other colored gemstones due to its striking brilliance and diverse palette.

Spinel’s wide color range makes it one of the most adaptable choices in birthstone jewelry. Whether you’re choosing an engagement ring or a personalized pendant, spinel gemstone jewelry can offer an unexpected and colorful alternative to more traditional stones.

August Birthstone Symbolism, Meaning & History

August birthstones are more than just beautiful adornments — they carry rich symbolism and fascinating histories that have kept them culturally significant through the ages.

Peridot: Gem of the Sun

Peridot shimmers like shafts of morning sunlight piercing through the dense canopy of an ancient forest — a glow so warm and luminous it earned the stone its title: Gem of the Sun.

The name peridot is believed to have originated from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” It was first discovered on the volcanic island of Zabargad (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea as early as 1500 BC. Treasured by ancient Egyptians, it was believed to protect against evil spirits.

Symbolically, peridot represents renewal, growth and inner harmony. Its fresh green hue is associated with nature, prosperity and emotional healing.

Often linked to new beginnings, it’s believed to clear negative energy, boost confidence and bring calmness along with well-being.

As the August birthstone, peridot is a timeless reminder of life’s ongoing cycles and the rejuvenating power of light and hope.

Spinel: The Stone of Revitalization and Hope

Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, spinel has quietly captivated jewelers and historians for centuries.

A red spinel even graces one of the world’s most famous ornaments: Britain’s Imperial State Crown. When it was first gifted to Edward, the Prince of Wales, it was believed to be a ruby.

The distinction between spinel and ruby wasn’t made until 1783, when differences in their chemical composition were discovered.

Spinels have been used as ornamental gems since as early as 100 A.D., long before they were formally identified.

Believed to renew strength and bring resilience, spinel is associated with emotional healing, fresh beginnings, and inner clarity. Its vibrant spectrum — from fiery reds to tranquil blues and soft pinks — mirrors the versatility of the human spirit.

It’s the perfect gem for those seeking a new chapter or deeper self-awareness. Its beauty is timeless and its message powerful: after every challenge comes the strength to shine again.

How to Choose the Right August Birthstone Jewelry

Those born in August have the luxury of choosing between a vibrant green peridot and the versatile spinel in a range of hues.

When selecting birthstone jewelry, consider the personality and symbolism behind each stone:

Peridot Jewelry: Perfect for the ‘glass half full’ optimists who appreciate vibrant colors and seek positivity. Peridot rings, necklaces, and earrings make for stunning gifts.

Spinel Jewelry: Perfect for those looking for color options beyond green.  If your August baby is looking for birthstone jewelry that inspires hope and encourages revitalization, then spinel is the only choice. Spinel’s brilliance makes it a standout choice for rings and pendants.

August Birthstone Care and Cleaning

Peridot and spinel, both celebrated as August birthstones, require mindful care to maintain their brilliance.

Peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it relatively softer than many gemstones.

Clean it gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as peridot can be sensitive to heat and temperature changes.

Spinel, more durable with a hardness of 7.5 to 8, offers greater flexibility. It can be cleaned using warm, soapy water or in an ultrasonic cleaner. However, steam cleaning should still be avoided.

For both stones, store them separately to prevent scratches and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or prolonged direct sunlight.

Final Thoughts on August Birthstones & Jewelry

Whether you’re drawn to the fresh green brilliance of peridot or the rich, varied hues of spinel, August birthstone jewelry offers a timeless way to celebrate your birth month.

These gemstones are not only beautiful but also rich in history and meaning, making them ideal for both gifting and personal expression.

For those exploring options in birthstone jewelry, both peridot jewelry and spinel jewelry deliver distinctive aesthetics.

While peridot adds a vibrant splash of nature-inspired green, spinel provides versatile color options for every taste and mood.

Choosing either of these August birthstones ensures you wear something as meaningful as it is magnificent.

Explore our curated collections of August birthstone rings, necklaces, and earrings to find the perfect piece of birthstone jewelry that matches your style and spirit.

Peridot and Spinel Jewels for You

Loose Peridot Gemstones

From sub-carat to large stones, choose your own pick.

Loose Spinel Gemstones

From the blues of the ocean to the reds of carnations, your gifting options are immense.

Peridot Rings

The ‘gem of the sun’  will glow on her fingers and make your engagement or wedding ring sparkle forever

Spinel Rings

‘The great imposter’ spinel gives you a lot of colors and sparkles for every occasion.

August Birthstone Pendants & Earrings

Complete your look with a wide variety of peridot and spinel pendants & earrings from GemsNY.