Peridot: The Sparkling August Birthstone Gemstone

We’re now well into August, and that means it’s time to celebrate the birthstone of the month — the vibrant green Peridot. This natural gemstone, known for its fresh olive tones and fascinating origins, is a favourite for jewellery lovers and gem collectors alike. Throughout August, I’ll be sharing useful insights, fun facts, and care tips about this beautiful stone.

What Does the Word "Peridot" Mean?

The exact origin of the word peridot is still debated. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, it may derive from the Anglo-Norman word pedoretés (used for opal). Another widely accepted theory links the word to the Arabic faridat, meaning “poor man’s emerald.” Over time, peridot has also been referred to as chrysolite (from the Greek for “gold stone”) and olivine, referencing its signature green hue.

Where Is Peridot Found?

Peridot gemstones are typically found in mafic volcanic rocks and are brought to the Earth’s surface through volcanic or tectonic activity. Historically, the volcanic island of Zabargad (St. John) in the Red Sea was one of the earliest known sources. Today, major deposits are found in:

• Arizona, USA (the world’s largest producer)

• Pakistan (notably in the 1990s)

• Myanmar, China, Brazil, Africa, and Vietnam

Fascinatingly, peridot can also be found in outer space — embedded in rare stony-iron meteorites called pallasites. One such meteorite, the Hambleton meteorite, was auctioned in Edinburgh in 2013 and is famous for its peridot crystal inclusions.

How to Identify a Peridot

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that comes in just one colour: olive green. Its intensity can vary based on iron content. Key identifying features include:

• Iron magnesium silicate composition

• Strong double refraction

• No resistance to acid

• Occasionally forms cat's eye chatoyancy

• Known for four-ray asterism (in rare specimens)

Gemological Properties of Peridot

• Mineral Group: Olivine

• Chemical Formula: (MgFe)₂SiO₄

• Crystal System: Orthorhombic

• Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 to 7

• Density: 3.34

• Refractive Index: 1.654–1.690

• Birefringence: 0.035 to 0.038

Buying Peridot Gemstones: What to Look For

When shopping for a natural peridot gemstone, keep in mind the “Four Cs”:

• Colour: The most valuable peridots have a vivid lime to olive green tone with no brown or yellow undertones.

• Clarity: Eye-clean peridots are widely available, though some may show minor inclusions under magnification.

• Cut: Peridot is often found in round, oval, emerald, cushion, and Asscher cuts.

• Carat Weight: While smaller peridots are affordable, large stones over 10 carats are rare and more valuable.

Peridot is generally not treated or enhanced, making it a favourite among lovers of untreated gemstones. Beware of imitations made of synthetic spinel or sapphire.

Famous Peridots

One of the largest known peridot gems weighs 310 carats and is housed at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Arizona has also yielded stones up to 22 carats, and most faceted peridots on the market fall between 6mm and 13mm in size.

How to Care for Peridot Jewellery

Though durable, peridot is softer than many other gemstones, making it more prone to scratches. Here’s how to care for your peridot jewellery:

• Avoid sudden temperature changes or pressure settings like tension rings.

• Clean using warm, soapy water and a soft cloth — avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steamers.

• Store separately from harder gemstones like sapphires and diamonds to prevent scratches.

Peridot in History and Lore

• Ancient Egyptians mined peridot from Zabargad as early as 1500 BCE, calling it the “Gem of the Sun.”

• Cleopatra’s famous “emeralds” may have actually been peridots.

• The stone is mentioned in the Bible (as “pitdah”) and used in Catholic bishop rings paired with amethyst.

• During the Crusades, peridot was brought to Europe and used to adorn churches, including Cologne Cathedral.

• Napoleon gave Josephine peridot as a symbol of his affection.

Why Peridot Is Perfect for Jewellery

Peridot is a favourite for August birthstone jewellery, as well as men’s and women’s accessories. Thanks to its availability in matched sets, it’s ideal for:

• Earrings and ring sets

• Necklaces, bracelets, and brooches

• Men’s cufflinks, tie pins, and pendants

Its fresh green glow is versatile and flattering on most skin tones, making it a popular choice for everyday jewellery and statement pieces alike.

Related Gemstones

Peridot is the gem variety of olivine, made up of fayalite and forsterite. The high iron content is what gives peridot its unique green colour. Historically, the term chrysolite has also been applied to gems like chrysoberyl, zircon, tourmaline, topaz, and green apatite.

Looking to buy peridot online? At Gemstones Brazil, we offer ethically sourced loose peridot gemstones in calibrated sizes and a variety of shapes — perfect for bespoke jewellery design.

Whether you're a jewellery maker or gemstone enthusiast, August is the perfect time to discover the beauty and lore of peridot.