What Is August's Birthstone? A Complete Guide to Peridot

What Is August's Birthstone? A Complete Guide to Peridot

Table of Contents

• What is August's birthstone? 
• What is peridot? 
• Where does peridot get its beautiful green color? 
• What does peridot symbolize? 
• Is peridot a durable gemstone? 
• How do you care for peridot jewelry? 
• Why choose peridot jewelry? 
• Frequently Asked Questions 

Summary

If you were born in August, your birthstone is peridot, a vibrant green gemstone that has been treasured for thousands of years. Known as the "Gem of the Sun," peridot symbolizes strength, prosperity, happiness, and new beginnings. Whether you're celebrating an August birthday or simply love it’s refreshing green color, peridot is a beautiful and meaningful choice for rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

At Hopman Jewelers in Downtown Elkhart, we offer a beautiful selection of peridot jewelry perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply adding a pop of color to your jewelry collection. 

What Is August's Birthstone?

The official birthstone for August is peridot.

Peridot has delighted jewelry lovers for over 3,500 years and is one of the few gemstones that naturally occurs in only one color, green. Its shades range from a soft yellowish-green to a rich olive green, with the most desirable stones displaying a vivid lime or grassy green.

Unlike many gemstones, peridot forms deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Some rare peridots have even been discovered in meteorites!

What Is Peridot?

Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine.

Unlike emeralds or sapphires, whose colors come from trace elements, peridot's green color comes directly from the iron naturally present within the crystal itself.

Some fascinating facts about peridot include:

• It has been mined for more than 3,500 years. 
• Ancient Egyptians called it the "Gem of the Sun." 
• It was believed to protect against nightmares and negative energy. 
• Hawaii considers peridot symbolic of the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess. 
• Today, major sources include Arizona, Pakistan, Myanmar, China, and Vietnam. 

Learn more about Peridot’s here.

Where Does Peridot Get Its Beautiful Green Color?

Peridot's fresh green color comes from iron within the gemstone.

The amount of iron determines whether the stone appears:

• Yellow-green 
• Lime green 
• Olive green 
• Deep grassy green 

Because the color is natural, peridot never requires artificial treatments to achieve its beautiful appearance.

Discover more details about Peridot here.

What Does Peridot Symbolize?

Throughout history, peridot has represented:

• Strength 
• Growth 
• Prosperity 
• Good fortune 
• Happiness 
• New beginnings 

Many people choose peridot jewelry to celebrate:

• August birthdays 
• New careers 
• Weddings 
• Anniversaries 
• New babies 
• Fresh starts 

Its bright color reminds many people of summer gardens, sunshine, and renewal.

Is Peridot a Durable Gemstone?

Yes, but with proper care.

Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it suitable for everyday wear while benefiting from a little extra protection.

Peridot works beautifully in:

• Earrings 
• Necklaces 
• Pendants 
• Bracelets 
• Fashion rings 
• Right-hand rings 

If you wear a peridot ring daily, removing it during heavy work, gardening, or sports will help keep it looking beautiful for years.

How Do You Care for Peridot Jewelry?

Peridot is easy to care for with a few simple habits.

We recommend:

• Clean with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. 
• Dry with a soft microfiber cloth. 
• Store separately from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. 
• Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. 
• Bring your jewelry to Hopman Jewelers for professional cleaning and inspections. 

Proper care will help your peridot jewelry maintain its brilliant sparkle for generations.

Why Choose Peridot Jewelry?

Peridot offers something unique.

Its lively green color stands out from traditional diamond jewelry while remaining timeless and elegant.

Peridot jewelry makes a wonderful gift because it is:

• Affordable compared to many colored gemstones 
• Unique and eye-catching 
• Rich in history and symbolism 
• Perfect for August birthdays 
• Beautiful in both yellow and white gold 
• Ideal for everyday wear 

Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone special, peridot brings warmth, color, and meaning to every piece.

At Hopman Jewelers, we'd love to help you find the perfect peridot ring, pendant, earrings, or bracelet to celebrate life's special moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is peridot an expensive gemstone?
Peridot is generally more affordable than emeralds, rubies, or sapphires, making it an excellent value while still offering exceptional beauty.

Can I wear peridot every day?
Yes. Peridot is suitable for everyday wear with reasonable care and occasional professional inspections.

What metal looks best with peridot?
Peridot pairs beautifully with yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver, and platinum. Yellow gold especially enhances its warm green color.

Is peridot a good gift?
Absolutely. Peridot makes a thoughtful gift for August birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and anyone beginning a new chapter in life.

Can Hopman Jewelers clean my peridot jewelry?
Yes! Our professional jeweler can inspect, clean, and maintain your peridot jewelry to keep it looking its best.