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 are fortunate to have 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
Though there are two birthstones for August, colors are more.
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 readily available.
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. Ancient Egyptians treasured the stone and they believed that it protects 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.
FAQ
What are the birthstones for August?
August is one of the rare months that’s blessed with not one or two but three birthstones—peridot, spinel and sardonyx. But peridot and spinel steal the spotlight for their rich colors, fascinating history and meaningful symbolisms. Pick the one that resonates with you.
Why does August have two birthstones – Peridot and Spinel?
Traditionally, peridot has always been linked to the August. But spinel has also been added recently to the list of August birthstones for its beauty and symbolism. These gemstones give August borns a stunning variety to choose from. Both the stones add different energies and a wide range of colors to your jewelry box. Pick the one that suits your style and personality.
What is the meaning and symbolism of Peridot and Spinel?
Peridot gemstone is associated with the Sun. It is believed to promote happiness and emotional balance and attract wealth in the life of August borns. On the other hand, spinel is known as the energizing August birthstone. It is linked to renewal, hope and resilience, perfect for someone who is looking for motivation.
What are the differences between Peridot and Spinel?
Both the August birthstones, peridot and spinel are very different from one another. Peridot comes in shades of green (from yellowish-green to olive green) while spinel comes in red, pink, purple, blue, black and more. Peridot has a Mohs score of 6.5-7 while spinel is slightly tougher at 8. The Egyptian island of Zabargad is the oldest recorded source of peridot whereas spinel was first found in Central and South East Asia.
Is Spinel a traditional or modern birthstone for August?
Spinel is a modern addition to the list of August birthstones. Peridot has been a traditional August birthstone for centuries but Spinel has been recognized in recent years. It offers a rainbow of colors, durability and versatility, perfect for everyday and occasional wear jewelry such as rings, pendants and earrings.
How is Peridot formed and where is it found?
Peridot gemstone is formed deep below the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions. Most of the peridot that comes today is from China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States. This August birthstone has also been found in meteorities, making it truly out of this world.
What color is the August birthstone Spinel?
The August birthstone spinel comes in a wide spectrum of colors such as red, pink, blue, purple and black. The red spinel is often mistaken for ruby in royal crown and jewelry, making it a great and budget-friendly alternative to the precious and fiery red ruby gemstones.
Which is better: Peridot or Spinel for August-born people?
Both the August birthstones are a powerhouse of energy and beauty.If you love the bright, cheery and green color of the August energy, opt for a peridot gemstone. Add it to a ring or pendant and promote balance and clarity in your life.
On the other hand, spinel gemstone offers a wide spectrum of colors along with royalty and rarity. Many August borns mix both the gemstones and style them for different looks and occasions.
Can I wear both Peridot and Spinel if I’m born in August?
Absolutely! There’s no rule that you have to wear just one birthstone. Shine bright in both, peridot and spinel jewelry such as rings, pendants and earrings and harness the astrological powers of the gemstones while creating your signature jewelry style.
What are the healing or astrological benefits of Peridot and Spinel?
Peridot and spinel, both the August birthstones are believed to carry multiple powerful and uplifting energies. Peridot’s fresh green color promotes harmony and invites abundance. If you are looking for a gem to ward off negative emotions and encourage self-love, peridot will be a great choice. On the other hand, spinel is the stone of renewal and strength. Calm your stress and recharge your energy by wearing a spinel ring regularly.
Can peridot and spinel be used in engagement rings?
Yes! Peridot and spinel are a great and durable choice for engagement and wedding rings. They are affordable alternatives to the precious gemstones such as rubies and emeralds and offer equal beauty. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors. So, pick your favorite and customize your engagement ring using GemsNY’s “Make-Your-Own” ring feature.
How do I care for my peridot and spinel jewelry?
Soak your peridot and spinel jewelry in lukewarm water and mild dish soap solution for 10-15 minutes and then gently brush with a soft toothbrush. Rinse it with water and pat dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and store it in a separate jewelry box to avoid scratches from other jewelry pieces.
Do celebrities wear peridot and spinel jewelry?
Absolutely! Celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Kate Middleton have been spotted multiple times wearing peridot and spinel jewelry pieces. From Met Gala to royal appearances, these celebs love to flaunt the beautiful August birthstones in the form of rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets.
