Welcome back to the Diamonds Hatton Garden blog where we bring you the very latest in our bespoke jewellery, industry news and latest developments. As one of the leading jewellers in Hatton Garden we are often approached by clients who are looking to purchase gifts for their partners. Whilst diamonds, our speciality of course, are always a fabulous choice certain clients seek something a bit more personal and, well, different. Fancy coloured diamonds are always a popular choice for clients and our inventory of fancy coloured pink diamonds for sale is one of the largest in the UK. If you are looking to buy blue diamonds, one of the rarest forms of natural fancy coloured diamonds, then we also can assist you. Fancy coloured yellow diamonds, their gorgeous hues, tones and brightness, are a very popular choice. However, when gemstones are concerned it is also possible to be a bit more bolder and to choose something very different. Last month we published our mini-guide to July’s birthstone and this month we continue the tradition with August’s birthstones. August is a real treat for gemstone lovers and those born in this month are blessed with a terrific trifecta of choice: Spinel, Peridot and Sardonyx.
Spinel
Available in a beautiful range of colours from deep red to bubblegum pink, Spinel is a classic and adaptable gemstone. From royal courts in Rome to Imperial China, the history of Spinel is one of luxury, elegance and refinement. Mistaken for centuries as Ruby, Spinel is a more than adequate substitute, at a much lower price point, and works well in earrings, necklaces, rings and pendants. Traditionally given as a 22nd birthday gift, Spinel has been associated with protection, health and harmony throughout history. Found in a variety of places, major producers of the gemstone are Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania and Pakistan and each area produces various shades of the gem due to the mineral composition of the land.
Peridot
Peridot with its lime green shade is a captivating gem that adds a pop of colour to any outfit. Ideally paired with a more casual and vibrant wardrobe, the gemstone can make a welcome addition to a jewellery box that is seeking to forgo darker pieces. Much like Spinel, Peridot too has been confused with other gemstones principally Emerald and Topaz. Throughout history this August birthstone was valued in many ancient and medieval cultures. Appealing frequently in medieval European churches, goblets and as an amulet. Peridot has also been given as a wedding anniversary gift and is traditionally given as a 15th wedding anniversary present. The earliest record of Peridot being discovered dates back to ancient Egypt (such is th history of theis green gem) but nowadays major sources for Peridot include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States. Peridot has come to be seen as the stone of compassion and it is thought to bring good health, restful sleep and peace to the relationships of the wearer through the balancing of emotions and of the mind.
Sardonyx
The final entry in our series on August birthstones is, ironically, the original and first birthstone associated with August and has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. Sardonyx is a combination of two types of chalcedony (cryptocrystalline quartz): sard and onyx and was used by the ancient Romans for their signet rings as hot wax would not stick to the stone. From brown red to dark orange, the spectacular range of Sardonyx’s colours make it an incredibly popular gemstone and very versatile. Now associated with courage, happiness and clear communication, Sardonyx has been said to bring stability to marriage and partnerships. However, historically its meaning has been as varied as its shades. The Romans used to wear Sardonyx rings with images of the war god Mars to battle for protection, in the old testament they were also seen to represent spiritual protection. Sardonyx is most associated with coming from India but is also found across the Balklans, Madagascar, Uruguay and the United States.
Regardless of the gemstone you choose for August, there is much beauty and variety in each stone. Are you interested in having an item made? Our jewellery workshop and expert teams can assist you. Contact Diamonds Hatton Garden via info@diamondshg.co.uk or on +44 (0) 7951 060238 to speak to our dedicated team.