Spinel is a newcomer to birthstone jewelry. In July 2016, the American Gem Trade Association and the Jewelers of America named spinel a birthstone for the month of August. Being named a birthstone will do more for the popularity of spinel than millions of dollars spent on advertising.

Spinel is the perfect birthstone. First, spinel occurs in every color of the spectrum – now people born in August are no longer limited to a yellowish-green peridot. Spinel occurs in a red color similar to ruby and a blue color similar to sapphire. Red and blue are both common natural colors for spinel.

Second, spinel is an extremely durable gem. It has the hardness and toughness for use in any type of jewelry – and that durability will enable it to endure over a lifetime of wear. Very few gems are more durable than spinel.