Ara L. - Aug 5, 2020

August Birthstone List of Essentials

At the center of the jewellery industry, the most popular aspect is Birthstone jewels. With a new month brings a new Birthstone. In the case of August, you’re able to choose from 3: the Peridot, Spinel and Sardonyx.

You’re about to get a fact full list about your Birthstone gems. We’ve decided to highlight the two current gemstones and gave the Sardonyx a shout-out. One thing you can count on here is gaining a solid grasp on both the Peridot and Spinel. To keep it fun, some cool “need-to-know” facts are also headed your way. 

Peridot

The colour of the Peridot can range from an olive-green to a brownish-green colour. Although the green colour in gemstones is popularly associated with the Emerald, it should not be confused with the soft, green colour of the beautiful Peridot.

Like all gemstones, it carries unique metaphysical properties. Through the ages and, looking as far back as 2nd century BC, the Peridot gemstone is seen as a Talisman, one that harbours negativity, false energies away from you.

When it comes to the use of Peridots in jewellery, despite its natural beauty and luster, there are a few key points to remember. This also includes how you should handle this gorgeous gem.

Toughness
Mohs scale of hardness factor of 6.5 - 7
This gem is slightly softer than most. Wearing jewellery enamored with Peridots should take care as it scratches and wears quicker than other gemstones.

Care Guide
Store your Peridot jewels in a delicate spot, separate from other pieces. When you go to wear it, select it for more of a special occasion to avoid potential wear. If you can simply not part with it, we don’t blame you. Wear it with a bit more attention.

Interesting Facts
This gemstone can be found across many different places across the world, including China Tanzania, the United States and, not to forget Peridot Beach found in Hawaii, while other spots as well. The most interesting of all is how some rare, high-quality Peridots have been found from meteors that have crashed into Earth!

Anniversary Gift Guide
The Peridot is given on your 16th wedding anniversary. 

Spinel

The Spinel is not just based on its shapes and cuts, but also the various colour forms. Colour varieties of the Spinel include a luscious Red, as well as Pinks, Purples, Blues and even Greens.

The uniqueness of the Spinel is found in its place in history. The Red Spinel and the Ruby were often mistaken for one another. Modern technology enabled Gemologists to determine the true difference between the two stones, which eventually led to less confusion.

The Red Spinel will maintain the same colour through all angles as light shines through. The Ruby, on the other hand, will show character and different colour as you inspect the angles as light shines through. 

Toughness
Mohs scale of hardness factor of 8. The Spinel can certainly handle a bit more than its Birthstone counterpart.

Care Guide
Despite the Spinel being tougher than most, just like your other jewels, be nice to them. The only difference here is you can use tougher means of cleaning your jewellery. Polishing cloths, liquid cleaners are solid choices.

Interesting Facts
In ancient doctrine, it was believed that the Red Spinel was used as a medical remedy for blood loss and inflammatory diseases.

Anniversary Gift Guide 
The Spinel is given on your 22nd wedding anniversary. 

The third option for August Birthstones, the Sardonyx, a unique stone of its own. They carry elegant layers of black and white making it a prime choice when crafting Cameos. Don’t scratch it off your list if you’re searching for something dainty and antique!

If you’re at a crossroads on which Birthstone to choose, don’t stress it. There’s no magical rule out there telling you what’s right. Use this as a guide and match with simplicity. You should go for something that will be both visually appealing and of good quality. A&A is passionate about all aspects of Jewellery. If you have some creative vision in mind, contact us for your Custom Design and how we can bring it to life.