Summer Birthstones
The Diamond Spot looks into summer birthstones for those who have birthdays during the months of June (Pearl), July (Ruby), and August (Peridot). These gems offer a wide range of opportunities for fantastic pieces of jewelry that highlight the uniqueness in its color and shapes that these gems are found or presented.
June – Pearl
The only gemstone created by a living creature, pearls, are produced by mollusks by depositing layers of calcium carbonate around a microscopic irritant that is lodged in its shell. Unlike common belief, this irritant is not a grain of sand.
The name pearl comes from the Old French word perle, in addition to the Latin word for “leg,” perna. This definition is about the leg shape of an open mollusk shell.
Pearls that are from nature without human interference are the rarest and most expensive in the world. A vast majority of pearls today are farmed by implanting a grafted piece of shell into pearl oysters or freshwater pearl mussels.
Appearing creamy white with an iridescent sheen, the most exquisite pearls have a naturally reflective luster that showcases many colorful hues.
Many freshwater pearls can be dyed, turning their color to yellow, green, blue, brown, pink, purple, or black.
July – Ruby
The ruby is July’s birthstone and the mineral is colored by the element chromium.
Ruby comes from two different ancient languages. The first definition is from the old Sanskrit word that meant “king of precious stones,” in addition to the Latin word for red, Rubeus. Throughout history due to its color and vitality, these fiery gems have been treasured for ages.
Long associated with the life force and vitality of blood, ancients believed the ruby had many magical powers. This included the ability to bring success in battle, love, and wealth in addition to amplifying energy along with promoting courage.
August – Peridot
Origins for peridot remain unclear, but this gemstone is widely recognized as from its brilliant green color. According to lore, peridot is often associated with prosperity and good fortune. Many historians believe peridot is rooted in the Greek word for “giving plenty,” peridona. While others feel it comes from the Arabic word for gem, faridat.
Formed deep inside the Earth’s mantle, this gem is brought to the surface by volcanoes. This gem once symbolizing the tears of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess of fire, and who controls the flow of lava. In rare cases, peridot is also discovered in meteorites.
While the stone is found in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Africa, a majority of the global supply of peridot can be found in Arizona at the San Carlos Reservation.
These stones show a wide variety of colors and hues. Schedule a visit with one of The Diamond Spot’s gem specialists and let them help you create a custom piece highlighting your birthstone for someone special in your life.