August Birthstones: Peridot & Spinel
What Is Peridot?
Peridot is a yellowish green gemstone with a base mineral called Olivine. Throughout history this brilliant stone has been mistaken for emerald and green topaz so often that even Cleopatra’s prized collection of emerald jewelry includes more than a few Peridot! Peridot was used as a protective talisman, shielding it’s wearer from evil spirits and night terrors.
How Do You Take Care Of Peridot Jewelry?
Peridot registers a 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which makes Peridot too soft for everyday wear in a ring, but perfect for special occasions or more protected jewelry like earrings and necklaces!
Never use an ultrasonic or steam cleaner on your Peridot jewelry. A soft bristle brush and warm soapy water is all you need!
What Is Spinel?
Spinel comes in a variety of colors from red / pink to orange, purple to blue, and even black! Just as peridot was mistaken for emeralds, so too has Spinel been mistaken for Sapphires and Rubies. The Black Prince’s “Ruby” that’s set in the Imperial State Crown was found to be a red Spinel in the 18th century. Spinel was believed to ease anger and promote harmony while red Spinels specifically were believed to be a remedy for blood loss and inflammatory issues.
How Do You Take Care Of Spinel Jewelry?
Spinel registers an 8 on the Mohs scale of harness, which makes this stone an excellent choice for everyday wear, particularly in rings.
Spinel jewelry can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners although warms soapy water and a toothbrush always works well too! High heat can cause some Spinels to fade in color, so it’s best to protect or remove the stone when soldering, retipping, etc Spinel jewelry.
Come See August Birthstone Jewelry at The Jewelers Guild!
The Jewelers Guild is a fine jewelry store in St. Francis, just south of Milwaukee Wisconsin. We offer jewelry repairs, appraisals, classes, custom jewelry, and all of the jewelry in our showroom is handmade in house by us! Come in and support local goldsmiths and craftsmen in your community!
We’re open:
Tuesday – Friday 10:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday 11:00am – 2:00pm
