Peridot

Peridot, one of August's two birthstones, is a yellow-green gemstone often displaying lime and olive hues, celebrated for its clarity and shine. It has long been associated with prosperity and good fortune, and its vibrant green color is a symbol of renewal, growth, and vitality.

The name "Peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem," or the Greek word peridona, meaning "giving plenty." As one of the world’s oldest known gemstones, some believe that the famous "emeralds" in Cleopatra’s collection were actually peridots. While the mineral olivine, from which peridot is formed, is common in lava rocks, high-quality peridot is rare and typically found in specific lava deposits and meteorites.

Spinel (Our Favorite!)

Spinel, the second birthstone for August, is a versatile gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, ranging from gray to an array of warm and cool tones. Some spinels even possess the remarkable ability to change color, shifting from blue to purple depending on the light source. Under incandescent or candlelight, the blue hue of the spinel transforms into a rich purple. Due to its wide color range, spinel is often mistaken for other gemstones, such as rubies or sapphires. In fact, some of history's most famous "rubies" have turned out to be spinels.

Did you know that the "Black Prince's Ruby" and "Timur Ruby" are actually two spinels in the Crown Jewels of England? Spinels are much rarer than a rubies and just as spectacular.