August Birthstone Guide - Peridot Jewellery for Birthdays
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Birthstone Guides
August Birthstone Guide
Peridot — The Gem of the Sun
A detailed guide to the radiant lime-green gem of summer, protection, and renewal.
Meaning & Symbolism
The Gem of the Sun: Named by ancient Egyptians who believed peridot absorbed the sun's golden light, glowing brightly even in darkness.
Protection & Power: Traditionally set in gold to ward off night terrors, dark spirits and envy.
Renewal & Joy: Associated with emotional balance, easing anger, attracting prosperity, and inspiring creative growth.
What It Is
Mantle-Formed Olivine
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine (magnesium iron silicate).
- Forms deep within Earth's mantle, 20+ miles down
- Surfaces via intense volcanic activity
- Mohs hardness of 6.5–7.0, fairly durable for fine jewellery
The Colour
Idiochromatic Green
One of the few gems that occurs in only one colour: lime-to-olive green.
- Colour comes from structural iron inside the crystal
- Higher iron content creates richer olive-green tones
- Displays high double refraction, giving a facet-doubling glow
Where It Comes From
Terrestrial & Cosmic
- Arizona (USA) — produces around 80% of commercial stones
- Pakistan & Myanmar — large heirloom crystals, 10+ carats
- Meteorites — discovered inside rare 4.5-billion-year-old Pallasites
Why August?
Summer Radiance
- Symbolises the peak warmth and vitality of August
- Historically tied to August in ancient Roman calendars
- Formally named August's birthstone by Jewelers of America in 1912
MOHS HARDNESS: 6.5–7.0
16TH ANNIVERSARY GEM
HIGH DOUBLE REFRACTION
Have a birthday to shop for this August? Browse our hand-curated peridot and vintage gemstone rings.
Shop Peridot RingsFine Jewellery & Gemology Reference Guide — August Birthstone Peridot
