August shines a little brighter with two charming birthstones – Peridot & Spinel.
Peridot reflects the freshness of nature, radiating positivity.
Spinel dazzles with a spectrum of captivating hues.
Together, they celebrate the beauty of individuality, each revealing its own unique colour and character.
Spinel, The Hidden Star
Spinel is celebrated for exactly what it is: a gemstone with exceptional brilliance, remarkable durability, and impressive palette of natural colours. From passionate reds and vibrant oranges to playful pinks, dreamy lavenders, vivid blues, and elegant greys, every spinel has its own distinctive charm.
Spinel is also one of the few gemstones that remains untreated, showcasing its natural beauty and colour to shine just as nature intended. Its brilliant sparkle and durable nature make it perfect to be worn and enjoyed every day.
A Glimpse Into Spinel’s Story
For centuries, Spinel quietly shared the spotlight with some of history’s most famous gemstones. Legendary “rubies” worn by royalty were later discovered to be magnificent spinels, including the legendary Black Prince’s Ruby, which still sits proudly in the British Imperial State Crown. As appreciation grew, spinel is now recognised for its unique beauty, a gemstone admired not for resembling another but for its own remarkable personality.
Spinel is wonderfully versatile. Brilliant red, orange to delicate pink glow harmonise with warm-toned gold, while cool blue, soft lavender, and grey spinels enhance a sophisticated, contemporary look when set in platinum. Through KOBO’s jewellery workshop creations, spinel becomes an expression of colours with endless possibilities, making a stunning solitaire ring where its captivating colour takes centre stage as part of a story crafted uniquely yours.
Peridot, A Little Piece Of Sunshine
With its unmistakable luminous golden-green glow, Peridot carries a bright yet calming sunny personality that feels instantly uplifting. One of the few gemstones naturally occurs in a single colour, its shades range from refreshing lime green to rich olive tones.
Known as the “Gem of the Sun” by the ancient Egyptians, it was treasured as a symbol of prosperity, protection and happiness. They believed it could ward off negativity and invite good fortune to its wearer. Today, it continues to represent optimism, renewal and abundance, making it a meaningful gemstone for celebrating life’s milestones or embracing a new chapter.
The Wonders Of Peridot
Unlike most gemstones that form within the Earth’s crust, peridot is born deep in the Earth’s mantle and carried to the surface by volcanic activity. Even more extraordinary, rare peridot crystals have been discovered inside meteorites that are quite literally out of this world!
Peridot’s refreshing green pairs beautifully with yellow or champagne gold, creating a warm sunlit glow, while platinum offers a crisp modern contrast that lets its vibrant colour shine. As a softer gemstone, peridot is ideal for hidden settings that protect its beauty over time rather than exposed outer settings. At KOBO, we love setting it as a secret stone on the inner band, combined with personal engravings that tell your story – a beautiful reminder that the most heartfelt touches are often the ones known only to the wearer.
Two Gems, Two Personalities
Whether you are drawn to the uplifting optimism of Peridot or the colourful versatility of Spinel, August’s birthstones celebrate the beauty of colour and timeless appeal, and the most meaningful one is the gem that becomes part of your own journey to shine.
The information in this article has been sourced from multiple trusted gemology websites and expert references from:
Peridot & Spinel: 1. Gemological Institute of America (GIA) | 2. International Gem Society | 3. International Gem Society