August Birthstones: Peridot & Spinel Meaning, History & Jewelry Guide

August is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, giving jewelry lovers two beautiful gemstones to choose from: Peridot and Spinel. While peridot is admired for its fresh green color and symbolism of renewal, spinel is celebrated for its brilliant colors, durability, and fascinating royal history.

Whether you're shopping for an August birthday gift, celebrating a milestone, or adding a meaningful piece to your own jewelry collection, this guide explains everything you need to know about August birthstones, including their history, symbolism, colors, durability, and how to choose the right one for your style and lifestyle.

What are August Birthstones?

August has two modern birthstones: Peridot and Spinel. Peridot has been associated with August for centuries, while spinel became an official August birthstone in 2016. Together, these two gemstones offer distinctly different styles. Peridot is known for its vibrant green hue, while spinel is available in a wide range of colors, including red, blue, purple, and black.

Peridot: August's Classic Birthstone

Peridot History and Origins

Peridot, often referred to as the “evening emerald,” is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color: a vibrant olive green. It is a type of olivine, a mineral made of magnesium iron silicate. Peridot forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity, often alongside diamonds in an identical geological process. But the Earth isn’t the only place that you can find peridot, it can also come from outer space! The gemstone sometimes appears in pallasite meteorites that fall to earth, which are named for their intricate matrix design.

Peridot has been prized for centuries; it was a favorite of ancient Egyptians, who believed it protected against nightmares and brought the wearer power and influence. Interestingly, some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been peridot. The gemstone was mined on the Egyptian island of Zabargad in the Red Sea as early as 1500 B.C. Today, you can find peridot mined in Myanmar, Pakistan, China, Norway, Hawaii, and Arizona. In fact, the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is the largest source of peridot in today’s market.

Today, peridot remains one of the most popular August birthstones, admired for both its beauty and rich history.

SYMBOLISM AND MEANING

Peridot is associated with strength, vitality, and positive energy. It’s believed to:

• Enhances confidence
• Promotes restful sleep
• Wards off negative emotions
• Attracts prosperity and growth

Its green hue aligns it with themes of renewal and rebirth, making it a thoughtful gift for someone going through a life transition or new beginning.

Peridot: Color, Clarity & Durability

Peridot’s distinctive green hue ranges from yellow-green to olive to brownish-green. The most sought-after peridots have a vivid, grass-green color without any brown or yellow tones. It ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear, especially in earrings, pendants, and necklaces with proper care.

Popular Peridot: Jewelry Styles

Peridot looks especially beautiful in yellow gold settings, where its vibrant green color truly stands out.

• Statement rings
• Stud earrings
• Solitaire pendants
• Vintage-inspired designs

Thanks to its affordability and availability in larger sizes, peridot is ideal for those who want a bold, colorful gemstone without the premium price tag.‌‌

Spinel: August's Modern Birthstone

Spinel is a gemstone that has long been mistaken for ruby due to its rich red color. In fact, some of the most famous “rubies” in history, including the Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels, are actually spinels. Chemical tests conducted by mineralogist Jean Baptiste Louis Rome de Lisle in the 1780s revealed its true origin.

Spinel forms in the same geological conditions as sapphire and ruby, often found in the same mines. Historically underappreciated, spinel has recently seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to its dazzling array of colors (including pink, red, purple, and blue) and excellent durability.

Afghanistan and Tajikistan were among the most important origins for spinels historically. The entire region was known as Balascia, where Balas rubies, the historical name for red spinel, came from. Spinels from this region were the largest and most sought-after. Myanmar and its Mogok Valley were also an important source for spinel. The gems here were smaller, but they had a natural sheen that locals called “spirit-polished.” Today, you can find spinel mining in countries like Vietnam, Russia, Cambodia, and Australia.

Today, spinel is prized as one of August's official birthstones thanks to its durability, natural brilliance, and stunning range of colors.

SYMBOLISM AND MEANING

Since the gemstones were often large, rulers throughout history were quick to claim them or go into battle for such beautiful spoils of war. These gems were often given as gifts as well.

Spinel is associated with revitalization, energy, protection, and power. It’s said to:

• Encourages passion and devotion
• Replenishs low energy levels
• Supports emotional healing
• Inspires confidence and persistence

Red spinel, in particular, symbolizes love and courage, making it an ideal gift for romantic milestones.

Spinel color, clarity & durability

One of spinel’s most appealing qualities is its range of colors. While red is the most prized, spinel also occurs in pink, lavender, blue, violet, orange, and even black. Unlike many other gemstones, spinel is almost always untreated, meaning what you see is natural and authentic.

Spinel scores an 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry.

Popular Spinel Jewelry Styles

Spinel’s brilliance and durability make it ideal for fine jewelry. It’s often set in:

• Drop earrings
• Statement necklaces
• Fashion Rings
• Cuff Bracelets

Its versatile color palette makes spinel a perfect match for white, rose, and yellow gold, as well as platinum settings.

Peridot vs Spinel: What's the difference?

How to Choose the Right August Birthstone for You

With two stunning gemstones to choose from, how do you know which August birthstone suits you best? Consider the following factors:

1. PERSONAL STYLE

• Classic and Earthy: Go for peridot—its fresh green hue pairs well with nature-inspired styles and vintage settings.
• Bold and Glamorous: Choose spinel—especially in red or hot pink—for a more dramatic, high-fashion look.

2. SKIN TONE AND METAL PREFERENCE

• Warm undertones: Peridot in yellow gold will enhance your natural glow.
• Cool undertones: Spinel in pinks, purples, or blues looks radiant in white gold or platinum.

3. DAILY WEAR VS. OCCASIONAL

• Peridot is softer, so it’s best for pendants and earrings if worn daily.
• Spinel, being more durable, can stand up to the wear and tear of rings and bracelets.

4. MEANING AND INTENTION

• Looking for positivity, renewal, or new beginnings? Peridot is your stone.
• Seeking passion, confidence, or emotional strength? Spinel’s your match.

5. Budget

Peridot is generally more affordable , especially in larger sizes, while fine-quality spinel can vary in price depending on it's color and rarity.

FAQs About August Birthstones

Q: Is peridot a rare gemstone?

A: Peridot is relatively abundant, especially compared to gemstones like emerald or sapphire. This makes it more affordable, particularly in larger carat weights.

Q: What makes spinel different from ruby?

A: While they may look similar, spinel and ruby are different minerals. Spinel has a cubic crystal structure and is often untreated, whereas ruby is a variety of corundum and frequently heat-treated to enhance color.

Q: Can spinel be used in engagement rings?

A: Absolutely. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and excellent brilliance, spinel is an increasingly popular choice for unique, colorful engagement rings.

Historical & Zodiac alternatives to august birthstones

‌‌If you’re looking for another way to celebrate your birth month, consider the zodiac signs. If you’re born between August 1st and August 23rd, you’re a Leo with an onyx stone. From August 24th to 31st, you’re a Virgo with a carnelian stone. Both onyx and carnelian share some similarities with the sardonyx (a historical choice for August babies), whether in base material or coloration.

Whichever one you choose, you’ll have plenty of ways to enjoy your beautiful August birthstone. Talk to one of our knowledgeable Brinkers associates for help picking the perfect August birthstone piece for yourself or someone you love.

Celebrate August with Brinker’s Jewelers

Whether you’re drawn to the lush green of peridot or the vivid brilliance of spinel, August’s birthstones offer something truly unique. At Brinker’s Jewelers, we offer a selection of fine birthstone jewelry designed to highlight each gem’s natural beauty.

From custom engagement rings to everyday pendants and earrings, our experienced team can help you find, or create, the perfect piece. Celebrate an August birthday or simply treat yourself to a gem that reflects your energy, passion, and personality.

Visit Brinker's Jewelers in Evansville or browse our August birthstone jewelry collection online to find the perfect peridot or spinel ring, necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings.