What is Peridot: Birthstone Guide

What Does the Peridot Birthstone Mean?

August is the peak of the summer season and a time to soak in those final sunny days. The birthstone peridot symbolizes the shining sun and is a fitting gemstone for August. Peridot has a celestial, neon green-yellow glow that gives this gemstone a vibrant and unique appeal.

The birthstone peridot symbolizes:

Protection against negative forces
Harmony and prosperity
Restful sleep

Peridot Shades and Varieties

Peridots are known for their otherworldly electric yellow-green color. Did you know peridot has a real connection to outer space? This gemstone comes from iron meteorites, called palatines, that hold the mineral olivine. Olivine is then cut into what we know as peridot. We can also find examples of peridot right on earth. The birthstone peridot is also formed in the molten rock of Earth’s upper mantle.

Chartreuse

Pear

Green Tea

Forest Green

Peridots in History

Gemstones are the subject of many legends and myths and have been prized by famous peoples and cultures throughout time. Throughout history, peridots have been mistaken for the May birthstone, emerald, because of their similar green color. Peridot was historically mined in ancient Egypt, but today we find peridot all over the world in countries like Australia, Brazil, Ethiopia, Norway, and Sri Lanka. Discover the unique history of the birthstone peridot.

Cleopatra’s prized collection of emeralds were likely peridots in reality

In myth, Mother Nature gifted peridot for the creation of earth

Medieval churches were often decorated with peridot

Peridot is thought to be the tears of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess

Peridot Care

Peridot is tough and durable enough for daily wear, though it is also sensitive to temperature changes and prolonged exposure to moisture. Like most gemstones, peridots should be stored separately to avoid scratching or being scratched. Store them in a lined box or a soft pouch. Keep your peridot birthstone jewelry sparkling by cleaning it under warm running water with a mild soap.

How Does Your Birthstone Hold Up?

Jewelers use a tool called the Mohs Hardness Scale to rate a gemstone’s general resistance to scratching. Gemstones are ranked from 1 to 10 on the scale, diamonds are the hardest at 10 — just remember higher gemstones are more durable while lower gemstones need a little more protection and care.

Shop Peridot Jewelry

Explore jewelry for the August birthstone, peridot. This otherworldly gemstone is heavenly in bracelet bands and looks naturally serene set in sterling silver necklaces and earrings. Shop our incredible collection of peridot rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to find the look that’s just your style.