Spinel, Sardonyx and Peridot. A various array of different stones to represent the summer month of August, which is one of three months that have three different birthstones. (the others being December and August). With a variety of options, August definitely brings a solid group of choices to suit everyone’s style and budget. However, for this blog we will mainly be focusing on Spinel and Peridot!
The months that are lucky enough to have more than a singular birthstone, these are separated into two lists: Modern and Traditional. The more common of the two is the modern birthstones, which were defined in 1912 by the Jewelers of America in an attempt to standardise (and commercialise) birthstones. This was further updated in the 1950s, to include gemstones such as Citrine for November, or Alexandrite for June. Modern stones are based on what’s easier to sell in large quantities (making it the more affordable choice).
Peridot
Peridot is the Modern gemstone for August, rather than the the Traditional, and is also known as the “Sun-Gem”. Peridot is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. Alongside Olivine, it also is made up of Magnesium and Iron. The amount of iron present in peridot is what gives it its brilliant shine, the more the iron, the more the green glow. The origin of the name Peridot is unclear, but we do know that it is infamous for its lime green glow. It has quite often been mistaken for other green stones, such as Emerald and Topaz. It even earned itself the nickname as the ‘Evening Emerald’ because of it’s unique capability to sparkle under both natural and artificial light. But don’t be fooled, this gemstone is absolutely gorgeous evening or day.
Despite its unknown origin, many scholars have agreed that the word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic “Faridat”, which means “gem” and “unique”. However, some believe that it’s rooted in the Greek word “Peridona”, meaning “giving plenty.” This is maybe that’s why peridot was, according to lore, associated with prosperity and good fortune. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been comprised of peridot! Now, Peridot is used to celebrate 16th wedding anniversaries.
This August birthstone has an amazing history behind it. The oldest recorded source of this stone is the Egyptian island of Zabargad (the name now given to Topazios), and it is theorised that mining of Peridot may have been as early as 340–279 BCE. Peridot sourced from Zabargad is highly desirable, and has been prized for centuries. It has even been displayed in various prestigious museums around the world. Another incredibly important source for peridot is Myanmar (formerly Burma) which has produced some of the finest quality peridot, with deep colour and superb transparency. In modern times, most peridot on the market is sourced from China, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States, some have even journeyed to Earth on meteorites!
Peridot scores a 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning it is softer than most gems. It is also damaged by some acids, making the cleaning process a delicate one. Neither a steamer, or ultrasonic should be used to clean this stone. The safest method is a soft bristled toothbrush, and a mild soapy water!
Spinel
Spinel is the other modern birthstone for August, often mistaken for a ruby or pink sapphire due to it strong resemblance to both. It is also often found in the same locations! The main difference between them is chemical, but despite their differences, some of histories well known “ruby” gems have turned out to be spinel, which is often known for its wide variety of colours, such as orange, pink, purple, and even black! Pink spinel has became a perfect choice for those seeking hot pink or even bubble gum pink tones. For any colour choice of spinel, the price point is dependant on the saturation of those colours, meaning the richer, brighter and deeper those colours, the more expensive it will be. In rare instances, Spinel can also be colour-changing under iridescent lighting.
It is believed that the word Spinel is derived from the Latin word “Spina” – translated to thorn, in reference to the shape that spinel crystals form in. Unfortunately, due to its long history of confusion with the Ruby, Spinel does not have some of the great traditions ands beliefs as most birthstones. Despite its lack of history, it is often associated with joy and is believed to bring great energy to its wearer. Today, Spinel is now creating its own history by being set into the Great Britains Imperial State Crown, just above a diamond! Alongside Spinel setting its own history it is now given as the 22nd wedding anniversary!
Today, Spinel can be found in several locations across the world. The most common sources for this stone are Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania and Pakistan. Myanmar is very well known for producing some of the most striking spinel gems, such as hot pinks and the infamous ruby red. These are more rarer than a diamond, and thus the price is severely influenced. The Spinel gems that have been sourced there are so shiny that the locals call them “spirit polished”.
Spinel is typically a durable stone, scoring an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a perfect choice for every day wear. Steam cleaners and ultrasonics can be used to clean this stone, but any fractures may cause a problem. As for any stone, warm soapy water is the safest way to clean your jewellery!
We stock jewellery from brands from across the world, and can source items in all birthstones imaginable! If you would like to treat yourself to some meaningful pieces, just get in contact with us.
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