Are you an August baby but not Peridot’s biggest fan!? Well this year, you’re in luck!

After 114 years, the Jewelers of America and American Gemstone Trade Association have come together and announced a new birthstone for August, Spinel. This is only the 3^rd time the official birthstone list has been updated since it was established in 1912. 

Spinel itself comes in a variety of vibrant colours, from pastel pink, hot oranges to cool but intense blues. It is mined in Sri Lanka, Tanzania as well as other places, often mistaken for Ruby.

Colours of Spinel

Being widely sought after by royalty, the ‘Black Prince’s Ruby’ is a large, red Spinel

Black Prince’s Ruby

cabochon. It’s one of the oldest parts of the crown jewels, set in the British Imperial Crown.

Ranked 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, it is suitable for most jewellery as it doesn’t easily scratch and wear. Really is great news if you’ve never been overwhelmed by the olive greens of Peridot. August babies now have a vast array of beautiful Spinel to choose from.