
It was discovered in Myanmar in the early 2000s. It is known as ‘jedi spinel’ because it glows like a lightsabre in the Star Wars films. One of the more intriguing colours on the market is a very bright pinkish-red spinel that appears like a glowing bright, neon red. While red is perhaps the most popular and commercially successful colour of spinel, it can also come in a large array of colours, such as blue, green, grey, purple, orange and pink. Read more: Understanding Garnets in Antique Jewellery Other beliefs linked spinel with banishing sadness, replenishing energy and helping their wearer to overcome challenges. Historically, spinel (and other red gemstones) were thought to protect their wearer from harm and enhance vitality – largely because the red colour was associated with blood or ‘life force’. Spinel Dreamscape™ 5.34 ct cut by John Dyer You may see them referenced as ‘balas rubies’ in some historical records.ĭid you know? The Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels is actually a spinel? Read more here. Red spinels are considered important stones in British regalia and other royal collections. As gemmology became more established as a science in the 18th century it became possible to differentiate between rubies and spinels, and other similar-looking gemstones. Read more: What Should be in the Ideal Gemmologist's Toolkit?įor millennia, red spinels were commonly mistaken for rubies. It is sometimes known as the great imitator of gemstones because it can look like so many different stones with its wide variety of colours, most notably ruby. Spinel is a relative newcomer to the ‘official’ list of birthstones and was added as an alternative to peridot for the month of August by the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). Here, Lily Faber FGA DGA EG explores the alternative birthstone for the month of August and some of its synthetic counterparts. Explore peridot birthstone rings with unique style.The varied hues of spinel have been admired for hundreds of years, but this gemstone only recently found its place on the list of ‘alternative birthstones’.

Peridot RingsĪugust’s birthstone is a celestial wonder set in gleaming yellow gold, white gold or sterling silver.

Shop our incredible collection of peridot rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to find the look that’s just your style. This otherworldly gemstone is heavenly in bracelet bands and looks naturally serene set in sterling silver necklaces and earrings. Gemstones are ranked from 1 to 10 on the scale, diamonds are the hardest at 10 - just remember higher gemstones are more durable while lower gemstones need a little more protection and care.Įxplore jewelry for the August birthstone, peridot.

Jewelers use a tool called the Mohs Hardness Scale to rate a gemstone’s general resistance to scratching. Keep your peridot birthstone jewelry sparkling by cleaning it under warm running water with a mild soap. Store them in a lined box or a soft pouch. Like most gemstones, peridots should be stored separately to avoid scratching or being scratched. Peridot is tough and durable enough for daily wear, though it is also sensitive to temperature changes and prolonged exposure to moisture. The birthstone peridot is also formed in the molten rock of Earth’s upper mantle.

We can also find examples of peridot right on earth. Olivine is then cut into what we know as peridot. Did you know peridot has a real connection to outer space? This gemstone comes from iron meteorites, called palatines, that hold the mineral olivine. Peridots are known for their otherworldly electric yellow-green color. Peridot has a celestial, neon green-yellow glow that gives this gemstone a vibrant and unique appeal. The birthstone peridot symbolizes the shining sun and is a fitting gemstone for August. August is the peak of the summer season and a time to soak in those final sunny days.
