Hear us out: Emeralds, diamonds and sapphires tend to get a lot of the hype, but peridot may seriously be the most underrated birthstone out of the bunch. And while it doesn’t have the deep, rich smolder of an emerald or the exceptional brilliance of a diamond, peridot really is the stone of the moment.
Why? It's like a juicy pear on a hot summer’s day, a green meadow framed against a backdrop of blue skies, a refreshing dip in a mountain lake. It evokes memories of summer camps, berry picking, evening fireflies, fresh-cut lawns.
We could go on and on. But as the August birthstone, peridot also brings that soft-lawn luster to any piece of jewelry, perfect for those end-of-summer birthdays and anniversaries. Here’s a little more about what makes peridot unique and more special than a Taylor Swift song.
Whispers of History: The Significance & Origins of Peridot
While we’re waxing poetic about the feelings evoked by peridot, its history is equally fascinating. Natural peridot forms deep within the Earth’s mantle, under extreme heat and pressure. Volcanic eruptions then bring these flecks of green to the surface. Ancient Egyptians mined the gemstone from an island in the Red Sea. Greeks, Romans and medieval Europeans prized peridot for its mystical color.
And when it comes to the August birthstone meaning, harmony and balance, peace and love, creativity and resilience are a few of the attributes associated with peridot. Egyptians even believed the stones warded off evil spirits. Whether any of that is true or not, though, peridot has deep cultural ties across the globe.
As the August birthstone, peridot also shares a symbolic connection to late summer, given its natural formation under extreme heat along with the lushness and vibrancy of the season. Much like the summer foliage, peridot colors can range from a light lime green to a deeper, nearly olive tone. Peridot can also be used to commemorate a 16th wedding anniversary.
Our Favorite Peridot Birthstone Pieces
Whether you’re looking for an August birthstone necklace and bracelet for yourself or peridot birthstone earrings or a ring for a spouse or child, we’ve got you covered with birthstone gifts for anyone and everyone. Here are a few gift ideas for inspo:
- Round center stones surrounded by diamond halos give a breezy, light-reflecting look to a pair of peridot earrings.
- Is your August-born, Taylor Swift-loving teen always looking for more layering bracelets? A peridot bolo bracelet will give her all the good vibes, whether she’s stacking it with friendship bracelets from the Eras tour or mixing and matching metals.
- Me and you, moi et toi. However you say it, give the mom, spouse or partner in your life a blue topaz and peridot August birthstone ring kissed with an accent of diamond. It’s perfect for anniversaries, birthdays or just because.
- Got birthday money burning a hole in your pocket? The answer is always “treat yourself” — to a lab created peridot pendant on a sterling silver rope chain.
Caring for Your Peridot Jewelry
Keep your peridot pieces sparkling for years to come by taking the following steps when cleaning, inspecting or storing them.
- Use warm, soapy water and a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals.
- Wrap peridot jewelry in a soft cloth pouch to prevent scratches, and store in a cool, dry place.
- Remove peridot jewelry before exercising, cleaning, showering or swimming.
- Have a professional jeweler periodically inspect your birthstone pieces to make sure settings are secure.
Adorn yourself in August's finest when you explore Helzberg’s peridot jewelry selection in stores or online.
