One of the world's most ancient gemstones, the beautiful green peridot also serves as the modern birthstone for August. Peridot is known for its lime and olive hues, and its excellent transparency lends it an irresistible gleam when set in gemstone jewelry. The August birthstone peridot is perfect for gifts to celebrate birthdays or special events. Other less common August birthstones also include spinel and sardonyx.
SHOP AUGUST BIRTHSTONE JEWELRY
The Gem of the Sun
The meaning of gemstones is often tied to their unique history. Peridot has a rich history dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was used to ward off nightmares and evil spirits. The Egyptians associated peridot with light, thus dubbing it the "gem of the sun."
Peridot's Birthstone History
The practice of linking gemstones to specific months started in the first century, but peridot wasn't always August's birthstone. It officially became the August gemstone when birthstones were standardized in 1912. Its connection to lava flows, where it's found in ancient fields in Arizona and Hawaiʻi, makes peridot an apt choice for August, one of the year's warmest months in the northern hemisphere. Other August gems include spinel and sardonyx. Spinel was recognized as a secondary August birthstone in 2016, yet peridot remains the more celebrated gem for this month.
August Birthstone Symbolism
Each birthstone carries special meaning for those born in its respective month. Peridot, August's birthstone, symbolizes strength, happiness, and good fortune. It's believed to attract wealth and foster harmony in relationships. Linked to light, peridot is also thought to encourage clear thinking, peace, and tranquility, making it a potential lucky charm for August-born individuals.
Ancient Peridot Uses
Throughout history, August's birthstone, peridot, has been a gem of reverence. There's speculation among historians that what Cleopatra called her emeralds might actually have been peridot. During the medieval period, this green gem adorned sacred shrines.
August Birthstone Color
Peridot offers a spectrum of green tones for August's birthstone, from vibrant lime to deep olive and yellow-green shades, making it a versatile gem suitable for both day and night wear. It's commonly set in silver, gold, or platinum.
Gifting Inspiration for the August Birthstone
Peridot jewelry is a fantastic gift for those born in August. Beyond birthdays, it's a thoughtful choice for celebrating achievements or showing affection to loved ones.
A FOUNDATION FOR LASTING LOVE
While not a traditional choice for engagement rings, peridot can symbolize the start of a loving life with someone special. A gleaming peridot engagement ring set in yellow or white gold, possibly accented with a diamond halo, is an exquisite way to mark a significant moment.
A THOUGHTFUL BIRTHDAY PRESENT
Give the gift of showcasing one's August birthstone with a peridot pendant necklace. Available in various cuts like solitaire, trillion, cushion, pear, halo, and oval, these can be set in yellow gold, white gold, or silver.
GIFTS FOR MOM
Enhance mom's jewelry collection with the green of the August birthstone through a peridot bracelet. It's an ideal choice for Mother's Day or any celebration.
MARKING A MILESTONE
Peridot earrings offer a subtle yet meaningful way to celebrate milestones like graduations or promotions. Some designs include small diamonds to add extra brilliance to the peridot.