All About the August Birthstone: Peridot

All About the August Birthstone: Peridot

Were you or someone you love born in August? If so, peridot jewelry should be on your shopping list! Wearing a beautiful peridot pendant, ring, or bracelet is sure to enhance your look, bring positivity into your life, and tell those around you a little about yourself. Here’s everything you want to know about the amazing characteristics and properties of peridot.

Facts About the August Birthstone

Peridot is a yellow-green gemstone sometimes described as olive green or bottle green. The gem is naturally opaque, but it becomes clear when faceted and polished. While peridot is a fairly common mineral, high-quality crystals are rare. The stone can be mined in Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Hawaii, Ireland, Russia, and South Africa. Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it’s about the same hardness as opal and jade.

History & Formation of Peridot

Peridot is a variety of olivine, a mineral found in peridotite rock from the earth’s upper mantle. Iron contributes to the gemstone’s color, with the amount of iron determining the depth and shade of green.

The ancient Egyptians mined peridot for over 3,500 years on the Red Sea island of Zabargad, which the English named St. John’s Island during the Crusades in the Middle Ages. This island is the source of many fine peridot gems on display in museums around the world. The Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the sun” because of its restful, yellow-green hue and long history among their people.

Properties of Peridot

Long viewed as a protective stone, peridot was once believed to keep evil spirits at bay. It is also considered a visionary crystal that helps the wearer understand their destiny and spiritual purpose. Wearing peridot is thought to alleviate jealousy, resentment, spite, anger, and stress. Peridot jewelry can also enhance confidence and assertion without leading to aggression.

Peridot Jewelry Designs

The strong, unique color of peridot lends itself to several timeless designs. It pairs well with both gold and silver, and it can be combined with other stones of contrasting colors, such as pink tourmaline, red ruby, and black onyx. Peridot is available as a faceted stone, polished cabochon, rounded bead, or organically shaped chip. All varieties make for a beautiful fashion accessory.

If you’re ready to shop for fabulous consignment jewelry, head to a Home Consignment Center near you. We have a vast selection of remarkably priced new and vintage jewelry from various sources, including individuals, celebrities, manufacturers, insurance companies, and closeouts. Every piece we offer is one-of-a-kind and priced to sell, so if something catches your eye, it’s wise to snatch it up before it’s gone!

If you need to make some room in your jewelry box, you can also consign your jewelry with us. We provide in-store and in-home appraisals with professional jewelers for your convenience.

Ready to begin your treasure hunt? Check out our online jewelry consignment store, or visit one of our locations in California and Texas to view our fine jewelry in person.