The original birthstone for the month of August is peridot. Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine and is known for its bright green color. Some key facts about peridot as the August birthstone are:
History and Lore
Peridot has been used as a gemstone for over 3,500 years. It was first mined on St. John’s Island in the Red Sea around 1500 BC. Ancient Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the sun” because of its dazzling green hues. They believed it had powers of healing and protection. Peridot was also popular in ancient Rome. Large peridot gemstones were brought back to Europe by the Crusaders in the Middle Ages. Peridot jewelry became fashionable among medieval royalty and the Catholic church collected large peridot stones.
Color and Properties
Peridot ranges in color from light yellowish green to deep olive green. The intensity of the green depends on the amount of iron present in the crystal structure. Fine peridot has a deep green color without any brownish or yellowish tints. Peridot has remarkable clarity and transparency. Large, flawless stones are not uncommon. With a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is suited for jewelry use. Its durability and affordable price make it a popular choice for everyday wear.
August Birthstone Lore
The vivid green color of peridot symbolizes life, nature, renewal and wellness. It is thought to bring healing and vitality to anyone who wears it. According to some legends, peridot glows with a greener tint at night or when held up to the light. Ancient beliefs held that peridot had the power to ward off evil spirits and nightmares when set in gold. Wearing peridot is also said to strengthen friendships, attract love and calm anger. As the August birthstone, peridot is ideal for people born in mid-summer who draw energy from nature.
Jewelry Uses
Peridot looks beautiful in all types of jewelry designs. It is commonly set in rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets. Peridot also makes an excellent gem for brooches, necklaces and cufflinks. Since large stones are readily available, peridot often appears as a focal point in cocktail rings and designer jewelry. It works well for embellishing watches because it is easy to care for and does not scratch as easily as some other gemstones. Green peridot paired with diamonds or white metals creates an elegant look.
Geographic Sources
Historically, peridot was mined from St. John’s Island for over 3,500 years until the deposits were exhausted. Today, most peridot comes from the following places:
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| United States | Peridot is mined in Arizona on the San Carlos Reservation. These stones have a yellowish-green hue. |
| China | Peridot is found in some parts of China. The stones have a bright lime green color. |
| Pakistan | Fine large peridot is mined in Kashmir and Pakistan. The gemstones from here are highly prized. |
| Myanmar | Burma is a significant source for peridot. The stones have a deep green color. |
| Australia | Australian peridot tends to have a darker, yellow-green tint. |
August Birthstone Meaning
The peridot August birthstone carries many positive meanings and symbolism:
- Green color – symbolizes life, nature, renewal and wellness
- Healing – believed to heal diseases of the heart, lungs, sinuses and skin
- Protection – thought to ward off evil and nightmares
- Friendship – strengthens friendships and attracts love
- Peace – calms anger
- Influence – enhances confidence and assertiveness
- Wealth – attracts fame and riches
- Vision – stimulates mental clarity and perception
Care for Peridot Jewelry
Peridot is relatively durable for everyday jewelry use. However, some care is needed to keep peridot looking its best:
- Protect it from scratching and sharp blows which could chip the stone
- Clean using mild soap, warm water and a soft brush
- Avoid exposing peridot to chemicals from household cleaners and hairspray
- Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for peridot
- Store peridot separately from other gems to prevent scratches
- Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight to prevent fading
Price of Peridot
Quality peridot is relatively affordable especially compared to other precious gemstones. Price depends most on the size, color, clarity and cut:
- One carat stones range from $15 to $50. Larger 3-5 carat stones may cost $60 to $120.
- Fine peridot with a vivid green intensity without brown hues is most valuable.
- Eye clean, transparent stones are preferred over cloudy or included ones.
- Well cut peridot with superior sparkle commands a higher price.
- Large flawless peridot greater than 5 carats may cost several hundred dollars per carat.
The best value tends to be eye clean gems in the 1 to 5 carat range which display a rich green color.
Alternate August Birthstones
In addition to peridot, two other gemstones are also regarded as August birthstones:
| Birthstone | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Sardonyx | White layered with reddish brown | Happiness in marriage, eloquence |
| Spinel | Various, especially red | Revitalization, loving relationships |
Sardonyx is a banded form of onyx with white and reddish brown layers. Spinel comes in many colors but red spinel is most prized. Both offer additional options along with peridot for those born in August.
Conclusion
In summary, peridot is the original and modern August birthstone. Its vivid green color symbolizes life and nature. Peridot has been valued since ancient times for its beauty, powers of healing and protection. This durable and affordable gem makes an excellent jewel for everyday wear. Peridot is a great pick as jewelry for anyone born in August or seeking the many positive benefits ascribed to wearing this vibrant green stone.
