What Is the August Birthstone and What Does It Mean?
The August birthstone is peridot, a vivid green gemstone that symbolizes strength, protection, and good fortune. Some birthstone lists also include sardonyx and spinel as alternate August stones, but peridot remains the most widely recognized and requested. Its signature olive-to-lime green color comes from iron within the crystal structure, and it's one of the few gems that forms in a single color rather than a range of shades.
If you were born in August, or you're shopping for someone who was, here's everything worth knowing about the stone — its history, its meaning, how to care for it, and why an antique or vintage peridot piece can be even more special than a new one.
Where Does Peridot Come From?
Peridot has one of the more dramatic origin stories of any gemstone. It forms deep in the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity — meaning nearly every peridot in existence started as molten rock. Ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the Red Sea island of Zabargad as far back as the 3rd century BC, and historians believe some gems long attributed to emeralds in ancient jewelry were actually peridot. Today, most peridot on the market comes from Arizona, Pakistan, and China, though small quantities have even been found in meteorites.
What Does Peridot Symbolize?
Traditionally, peridot is associated with:
- Strength — historically worn as protection against nightmares and negative energy
- Prosperity — believed by some ancient cultures to bring wealth and good fortune
- Clarity and healing — associated with calm, balance, and warding off anxiety
- Marital harmony — sometimes given as a symbol of a lasting, peaceful relationship
Whether or not you place stock in the folklore, peridot's meaning has made it a popular choice for birthday gifts, anniversary pieces, and heirloom jewelry for centuries.
How Do You Care for Peridot Jewelry?
Peridot ranks 6.5–7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it softer than sapphires or diamonds and more prone to scratching if it's not handled carefully. A few care basics:
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners. Rapid temperature changes and vibration can damage peridot. Clean it with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush instead.
- Take it off before heavy activity. Gardening, cleaning, and exercise are common culprits for scratches and chips.
- Store it separately. Keep peridot pieces away from harder gemstones in your jewelry box to prevent surface scratching.
- Watch for heat exposure. Prolonged direct sunlight or heat can affect the stone's color over time.
Why Consider an Antique or Vintage Peridot Piece?
Peridot has been fashionable in jewelry for over a century, which means antique and estate pieces are out there — and they carry a history new jewelry simply can't replicate. A Victorian-era peridot ring or an Art Deco pendant isn't just a birthstone gift; it's a piece that's already lived a life, often with craftsmanship and setting styles no longer common today.
Having been in business in Bowling Green since 1881, we offer both newly made and vintage peridot jewelry. Our regular stock features newly made pieces, while vintage and estate peridot — spanning eras from turn-of-the-century settings to mid-century designs — typically surfaces at our yearly estate show each November. If you love the idea of an antique piece with real character, that's the best time to find one; in the meantime, our new peridot designs are always available for an August birthday gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is peridot a valuable gemstone?
Peridot is generally more affordable than gems like emerald or sapphire, but larger, deeply saturated stones can carry significant value. Rarity increases with size and color intensity.
Can peridot be worn every day?
Yes, but because it's softer than many other gemstones, it's best suited to rings, pendants, or earrings that aren't exposed to heavy daily impact.
What color is real peridot?
Genuine peridot ranges from yellow-green to a deep olive green, with the most prized stones showing a pure, vivid green with minimal yellow or brown tint.
Is peridot only for August birthdays?
While peridot is the modern August birthstone, it's also given as a gift for 16th wedding anniversaries and makes a striking choice for anyone drawn to green gemstones, regardless of birth month.
Behind the Jeweler's Bench
Insights, guidance, and stories from over a century at the jeweler’s bench. Discover thoughtful advice and meaningful perspectives—designed to help you choose well, care intentionally, and celebrate what matters most.
