Peridot and Spinel: The August Birthstones

Did you know that August has two birthstones – peridot and spinel? Peridot, a gorgeous green gemstone composed of olivine, magnesium, and iron, is often referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its captivating hue. Beyond its unique qualities, peridot symbolizes good health, peace, and harmony. Interestingly, this remarkable gemstone can even be found in fallen meteorites and volcanic lava. On the other hand, spinel, often mistaken for ruby or sapphire, comes in a variety of vibrant colors. Renowned for bringing joy, energy, and relaxation to its wearers, spinel is mined in countries like Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Both peridot and spinel are durable enough for everyday wear and can be easily purchased from various retailers, both in-person and online. So why not embrace the beauty of these birthstones and add a touch of elegance to your jewelry collection? Explore a stunning variety of peridot and spinel jewelry at Melogems and elevate your style with our exquisite designs!

Peridot

Composition and Characteristics

Peridot is a captivating gemstone with a rich green color. It is a semi-precious stone primarily composed of olivine, magnesium, and iron. Its vibrant hue ranges from a vivid lime green to a deep olive green, giving it a distinct and eye-catching appearance. Peridot is often referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its striking resemblance to emerald, but it possesses its own unique characteristics that make it stand out.

Symbolism and Meanings

Peridot has long been associated with various meanings and symbolism. This beautiful gemstone is believed to symbolize good health, peace, and harmony. It is said to have the power to bring strength and vitality to those who wear it, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. As a stone of abundance, peridot is also thought to attract wealth and prosperity into one’s life.

Formation and Discovery

Peridot has a fascinating origin story as it can be found in both fallen meteorites and volcanic lava. While the majority of peridot on Earth is formed within the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface through volcanic activity, it is also believed to have extraterrestrial origins. Peridot has been discovered in meteorites, suggesting that it can be formed in the intense heat and pressure of outer space.

Durable Gemstone for Everyday Wear

One of the remarkable qualities of peridot is its durability, making it an ideal gemstone for everyday wear. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is relatively resistant to scratches and abrasions. This durability ensures that peridot jewelry can withstand the rigors of daily life without losing its luster or beauty.

Where to Purchase Peridot Jewelry

If you are enchanted by the beauty of peridot and wish to adorn yourself with this delightful gemstone, there are numerous options available to you. Peridot jewelry can be found in various retailers, both in-person and online. Jewelry stores, gemstone boutiques, and online marketplaces offer a wide selection of peridot rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is important to choose a reputable and trusted seller to ensure the authenticity and quality of the peridot jewelry.

Spinel

Mistaken Identity: Spinel vs. Ruby and Sapphire

Spinel is a gemstone that often finds itself mistaken for the more renowned ruby and sapphire. This misconception arises from the similarity in colors and names. Spinel comes in a variety of shades, including vibrant red, pink, blue, and purple, which can closely resemble the hues of ruby and sapphire. However, spinel has its own unique brilliance and charm that distinguishes it from its more famous counterparts.

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Bringing Joy, Energy, and Relaxation

Spinel is believed to have a positive impact on its wearers, bringing joy, energy, and relaxation to their lives. This vibrant gemstone is said to uplift the spirits, enhancing one’s energy levels and promoting a sense of well-being. It is thought to alleviate stress and anxiety, fostering a more peaceful and serene state of mind. With its radiant colors and uplifting properties, spinel is a gemstone that can truly brighten one’s day.

Mined in Various Locations

Spinel can be found in various locations around the world. Countries such as Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, and Tanzania are renowned for their spinel mines. Each region produces spinel with its own unique characteristics and color variations. For example, Myanmar is known for its exceptional red spinel, while Sri Lanka is celebrated for its pink and blue spinel. The diverse mining locations contribute to the wide range of colors available in spinel gemstones.

Durable Gemstone for Everyday Wear

Similar to peridot, spinel is a durable gemstone that can withstand the demands of everyday wear. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, it is highly resistant to scratches and chips. This durability ensures that spinel jewelry remains beautiful and intact even with regular use, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a gemstone that can accompany them throughout their daily activities.

Where to Purchase Spinel Jewelry

If you are captivated by the allure of spinel and wish to add this enchanting gemstone to your jewelry collection, there are numerous avenues to explore. Just like peridot jewelry, spinel jewelry can be found in various retailers, both in-person and online. Jewelers, gemstone specialists, and online marketplaces offer a wide range of spinel rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Remember to choose a reputable source to ensure the authenticity and quality of the spinel jewelry you purchase.

In conclusion, both peridot and spinel are magnificent gemstones that possess their own unique qualities and characteristics. As birthstones for the month of August, they offer individuals the opportunity to adorn themselves with beautiful pieces of jewelry that carry special meanings and symbolism. Whether you choose the captivating green of peridot or the vibrant colors of spinel, these durable gemstones are perfect for everyday wear, allowing you to embrace their beauty and properties throughout your daily adventures. Explore reputable retailers, both online and in-person, to find the perfect piece of peridot or spinel jewelry that resonates with your style and captures the essence of these captivating gemstones.