The Gem of the Sun
Gemstone meaning is tied to the individual story of each stone. Peridot has a long history stretching back to the ancient Egyptians, who used the luminous gemstone to protect against nightmares and evil spirits. They associated peridot with light, calling it the "gem of the sun."
Peridot's Birthstone History
The tradition of associating gemstones with different months began in the first century, but peridot was not always the birthstone for August. Peridot received its August gemstone designation when birthstones were standardized in 1912. One reason for peridot resonating as the August stone is its connection to lava flows. Peridot can be found in ancient lava fields in Arizona and areas of Hawaiʻi. August is one of the warmest months of the year for much of the northern hemisphere and the peridot birthstone often forms in hot, volcanic conditions making it a fitting birthstone for August. Other August gemstones include spinel and sardonyx. Spinel was added as a secondary August birthstone in 2016, but peridot still remains the more popular gem for August.
August Birthstone Symbolism
Every birthstone has a special meaning for those born in the corresponding birth month. August birthstone peridot is a powerful stone that symbolizes strength, happiness and good fortune. It’s worn to attract wealth and promote harmony in interpersonal relationships. Because of its connection to light, this green beauty is also used to inspire clear thinking and instill a sense of peace and calm. Your August birthstone can serve as your lucky birthstone as well.
Ancient Peridot Uses
August’s birthstone has been a revered gem throughout history. In fact, many historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emeralds may have been peridot. Peridot was also revered in medieval times with this beautiful green stone adorning shrines.
August Birthstone Color
Peridot brings beautiful green tones as August’s birthstone. With colors such as lime green, deep olive green and yellow tinted greens, peridot is an excellent gem to wear day or night. It is often set in silver, gold or platinum.
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Gifting Inspiration for the August Birthstone
Peridot jewelry makes a wonderful gift for anyone born in August. While commonly given as a birthday present, peridot can also serve as a thoughtful gift to mark achievements or simply express your love for a family member or cherished friend.
A FOUNDATION FOR LASTING LOVE
Though not traditionally used for engagement rings, peridot can help you lay the foundation for a life in love with that special someone. A glittering peridot gemstone engagement ring set in yellow or white gold makes an exquisite gift to commemorate the special day, and a halo of delicate diamonds will enhance the green glimmer.
A THOUGHTFUL BIRTHDAY PRESENT
Give a gift that allows the recipient to showcase their stunning green August birthstone. Peridot pendant necklaces come in striking cuts like solitaire, trillion, cushion, pear, halo and oval. You can also choose from a yellow gold, white gold or silver setting.
GIFTS FOR MOM
Add the green August birthstone color to mom’s jewelry collection with a peridot bracelet she’s sure to love. This verdant gem is perfect for Mother’s Day gifts or other celebrations.
MARKING A MILESTONE
Earrings put peridot on subtle, but purposeful, display, making them an ideal gift for a graduate about to walk the stage or a family member receiving a hard-earned promotion. Some peridot earrings are paired with small diamonds to enhance their brilliance.
Learn More About Gemstones
Our selection of peridot jewelry is sure to have just the right pieces to catch your eye, whether they are for yourself or for a gift. Learn about more gemstones that offer something unique to fall in love with.
