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Due to its distinct green colour and bright, summery look, peridot is probably one of the most easily recognisable coloured gemstones. For thousands of years, people have valued the beauty of August’s birthstone and its traditional associations with wealth, safety and luck.
If you would like to purchase birthstone jewellery to celebrate a birthday, simply adore the green colour of peridot, or if you just wish to learn more about August’s birthstone and what it represents, you can find all of your answers below.
What Is August’s Birthstone?
August’s birthstone is Peridot. Peridot is the gemstone version of the mineral called olivine. Unlike many gemstones, peridot is only ever its distinctive green. This is because of the amount of iron contained in the stone, and the specific amount determines exactly what shade of green it will be, ranging from yellowish-green to deep olive green.
Peridot has had a very long history in jewellery-making. Many examples date back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians were among those who were particularly fond of the gemstone. Some historical references refer to peridot as the “sunstone” and, over time, August’s birthstone has become commonly associated with good fortune and protection.
The Meaning Of Peridot
As well as being August’s birthstone, peridot has developed many meanings throughout its long history. These typically include:
- Wealth and good fortune
- Happiness and positivity
- Protection
- Growth and renewal
Also, due to its bright green colouration, peridot has become synonymous with nature and beginning anew – a lovely connotation to have associated with August’s birthstone.
Some historical cultures believed that wearing peridot provided the wearer with protective properties and, specifically, that wearing golden peridot jewellery would protect them from negative energies. These beliefs contribute to modern-day meanings behind peridot jewellery, especially when it is given as a birthday or anniversary gift. Peridot is also historically linked to the 16th wedding anniversary.
Colour, Quality & Characteristics Of Peridot
Gemstones such as peridot are graded by multiple factors which determine the overall quality and appearance of the gemstone.
Colour: Peridot always appears green; however, the exact shade may vary significantly, including pale yellow-green through to rich olive and bright grass greens. Typically, high-quality peridots that exhibit vibrant and evenly distributed green colouration with relatively few brown or yellow tones are highly desirable.
Clarity: Many high-quality peridots exhibit excellent transparency. Inclusions may be visible within some peridots; some people consider specific disc-shaped inclusions (referred to as “lily pads”) to be distinguishing features.
Cut: A fine cut will help maximise the interaction between light and peridot’s brilliant colouration. Many standard gemstone cuts can be used when cutting peridot, including round, oval, cushion, pear and emerald-cut.
Weight: Peridots come in a variety of weights. Large, high-quality peridots exhibiting excellent colour and clarity are naturally rarer and consequently can command substantially higher prices.
Peridot has a hardness rating of around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. While generally acceptable for use in a variety of jewellery pieces, it is slightly softer than rubies, sapphires and diamonds. When purchasing peridot jewellery, it is recommended to take extra care to prevent scratching or impact damage to the stone.
Why Peridot Makes Great Jewellery
Of all the gemstones, none offer quite the same vibrant green appearance as peridot. Its fresh colour provides a perfect fit for a midsummer gemstone such as August’s birthstone, reminiscent of late summer’s lush green foliage and warmth.
Peridot is also perfectly suited to pairing with many precious metal varieties. Yellow gold can complement warm undertones in the stone, creating a classic appearance, while white gold and platinum create contrasting cool appearances that allow the green of the gemstone to truly shine. Diamond accents can be added to enhance sparkle and contrast. Small peridots make ideal accent stones, while larger stones can serve as focal points for custom pendants, earring pairs or rings.
These qualities result in jewellery made with August’s birthstone being b., as well as providing meaningful gifts that individuals born in August can cherish for years to come.
Bespoke Peridot Birthstone Jewellery
A custom-designed jewellery item incorporating August’s birthstone can turn an already distinctive gemstone into something completely personal. You can get in contact with us to discuss a commission for custom birthstone jewellery. From selecting the gemstone and precious metal to deciding upon the setting and overall design, you can have a say in every aspect of your new piece. Working directly with an expert jeweller also allows you to choose a peridot that suits your preferred style and budget while ensuring excellent craftsmanship from start to finish.
Our gemstone store, UK Gemstones, also gives you the opportunity to select the stone yourself. Browse the available gemstones to find a beautiful example of August’s birthstone before working with our designers to transform your chosen peridot into a completely bespoke piece of jewellery.
