August Birthstone Guide 2026: Peridot vs Spinel — Which One Should You Choose?
by Nasir Ahmad on Aug 07, 2026
August Birthstone Guide 2026: Peridot vs Spinel — Which One Should You Choose?
If you're shopping for an August birthday gift, you have two official birthstones to choose from: the classic vibrant-green peridot, and the newer, increasingly collectible spinel. Since 2016, both have been recognized as August birthstones by the American Gem Society and Jewelers of America — and each brings something different to the table. Here's how to choose the right one.
What Is Peridot?
Peridot is a vivid lime-to-olive green gemstone that has represented August for centuries. Its bright, natural color comes directly from its mineral structure rather than any added treatment, meaning virtually all peridot on the market is 100% natural and untreated.
Best for: Buyers who want a traditional birthstone with guaranteed natural color and strong everyday durability (Mohs 6.5–7).
What Is Spinel?
Spinel is August's newer co-birthstone, added after gemologists discovered that many famous "rubies" throughout history — including the 170-carat Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown — were actually spinel. It comes in a wide range of colors, from vivid reds and pinks to blues and purples, and is prized for its brilliance and rarity.
Best for: Buyers who want a rarer, more collectible stone with a fascinating history and broader color range.
Peridot vs Spinel: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Peridot | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Lime to olive green | Red, pink, blue, purple |
| Rarity | Widely available | Rare, especially in larger sizes |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 | 8 |
| Typical Treatment | None (naturally untreated) | Often untreated |
| Price Point | Accessible | Higher, especially for fine color |
| Historical Significance | Ancient birthstone, worn since Egyptian times | Newly added in 2016; long mistaken for ruby |
Why This Matters in 2026
Natural, untreated, and ethically sourced gemstones are what today's buyers are actively searching for — and both August birthstones fit that demand. Peridot is essentially always untreated by nature, while unheated spinel is increasingly prized as buyers move away from treated stones in favor of full transparency about a gemstone's origin.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Peridot If:
You want an affordable, guaranteed-natural birthstone with a bright, energetic green that suits everyday and statement jewelry alike.
Choose Spinel If:
You want a rarer, more collectible gemstone with historical intrigue and a wider color palette to match any jewelry style.
Shop August Birthstones at OneStep Gems
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does August have two birthstones?
Peridot has been August's traditional birthstone for centuries. Spinel was added in 2016 by the American Gem Society and Jewelers of America as a second option.
Is peridot naturally green, or is it treated?
Peridot's green color is entirely natural and comes from iron in its mineral structure — it is not enhanced or treated.
Is spinel a good diamond or ruby alternative?
Yes. Spinel's brilliance and hardness (8 on the Mohs scale) make it an excellent, often more affordable alternative to ruby and sapphire.
Which August birthstone is more durable for daily wear?
Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than peridot (Mohs 6.5–7), making it slightly more resistant to scratches for everyday rings.
Can I wear both peridot and spinel together?
Yes. Their contrasting colors — green and red, pink, or blue — pair beautifully in multi-stone designs, a trend gaining popularity in 2026.
