August's birthstone, peridot, dazzles with a vibrant green glow that perfectly captures late summer's golden light. Known as the "evening emerald" for its sparkling lime-green hues, this gem has captivated civilizations for thousands of years.

From its volcanic origins to modern jewelry designs, peridot's story shines as brightly as its luminous color.

Peridot's Captivating History

Ancient Treasure

  • First mined around 1500 BCE on Egypt's Red Sea island of Zabargad
  • Called the "gem of the sun" by ancient Egyptians who believed it warded off nightmares
  • Cleopatra famously cherished peridot, sometimes confusing it with emerald

Royal Connections

  • Medieval churches featured peridot in sacred artifacts
  • Germany's Three Magi Shrine displays spectacular 200-carat peridot gems

Modern Sources

  • Arizona: Produces 80% of the world's peridot supply
  • Pakistan: Source of exceptional "Kashmir peridot" with perfect clarity
  • China, Myanmar & Vietnam: Emerging producers of fine-quality stones

What Makes Peridot Special?

Color & Brilliance

  • Ranges from yellowish-green to deep olive
  • Features a distinctive oily luster
  • Gets its color from iron content (unlike chromium-colored emeralds)

Unique Qualities

  • Mohs hardness: 6.5–7 (ideal for protective jewelry settings)
  • One of few gems formed in molten rock
  • Occasionally found in space meteorites

Value Factors

  • Color: Vivid lime green (without brown tones) commands highest value
  • Clarity: Eye-clean specimens are particularly rare
  • Cut: Oval and cushion cuts maximize its natural sparkle

Peridot Meaning & Symbolism

Birthstone Significance

  • Represents strength, prosperity, and joy
  • Believed to reduce anxiety and enhance relationships
  • Ancient healers used it for purification

Legendary Powers

  • Hawaiians call it Pele's tears (after their volcano goddess)
  • Myth claims it could glow in darkness
  • Traditionally set in gold to repel negative energy

Peridot Jewelry Guide

Popular Styles

Jewelry Type Best Uses Care Tips
Rings Special occasions Opt for protective bezel settings
Earrings Daily wear Resistant to most everyday wear
Pendants Bold statements Clean with mild soap solution

Celebrity Spotlight

  • Meghan Markle often wears peridot earrings
  • Emma Watson has chosen peridot for red carpet events

Caring for Peridot

Essential Tips

  • ✅ Do:
    • Clean with warm soapy water and soft cloth
    • Store in fabric-lined compartments
  • ❌ Don't:
    • Expose to extreme temperature changes
    • Use harsh cleaners or ultrasonic methods

Styling Advice

Peridot looks spectacular with:

  • Rose gold (accentuates warmth)
  • Diamonds (creates striking contrast)

Why Peridot Shines Bright

Unlike other August birthstones, peridot is naturally green—never color-treated.

With prices typically ranging from $50 to $400 per carat, it's perfect for:

  • Meaningful birthday gifts
  • Unique engagement rings
  • Colorful layered jewelry

Did You Know? The Smithsonian displays some of the world's largest peridots (over 300 carats)!

Final Thoughts

Whether you're an August baby or simply love vibrant gems, peridot offers sunshine captured in stone. Its volcanic origins and cheerful glow make it truly special.

Style Tip: A peridot tennis bracelet makes the perfect summer-to-fall transition piece!