Peridot, Sardonyx and Spinel: The 3 Birthstones of August

09 August 2016

While certain months only have one birthstone that people associate with them, August has three birthstones, namely peridot, sardonyx and spinel. Each one offers its own unique characteristics, history and superstitions. We provide a bit of information on these birthstones to help you learn additional facts.

PERIDOT

Since ancient times in Egypt, peridots have been mined and revered for the qualities. In fact, this gemstone is nicknamed ‘Gem of the Sun’ in honour of its yellowish-green tones it often has even though, other shades are possible at times. Peridot forms in lava rock in various parts of the world. The belief is that this stone brings wearers luck, offers protection from nightmares and even increases their influence and power.

SARDONYX

The second birthstone for August is sardonyx and is a mixture of onyx and sard. Sardonyx has an orange-brown colour with bands of white or other light colours. Unlike rarer gemstones, this one is quite commonplace, which makes it an affordable choice in jewellery. This gemstone stands for protection and strength, and encourages virtuous conduct and mental discipline in the wearer.

SPINEL

Spinel forms in dolomite and limestone and can range from vivid blue to deep red. In fact, this gemstone is often confused with sapphires and rubies. Many prize the deep red over all the rest of the colours, but there are plenty of shades from which to make your selection. Two distinguishing features of this stone help to identify it, namely its single refraction quality and its octahedral crystal structure. It also places lower on the Mohs hardness scale than sapphires and rubies do, but this does not change its appeal. Spinel’s name derives from ‘spina’, which is Greek for ‘thorns’, and this is fitting since in its natural form it contains sharp edges. With this stone, the wearer is believed to gain high energy and mental power by wearing it.

Ask our experts here at Ken Ross for further information about these three birthstones of August. We will explain the ideal cuts to bring out the best qualities of each of these gemstones. Often, it depends on the type of setting that you prefer as to which cut will be suitable for your piece of jewellery. Our company designs and creates pieces using only quality materials and techniques. You can select from our earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces on display, or we will custom make your item for you. All of our creations come with a guarantee of satisfaction for both our workmanship and materials.

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