Peridot is the contemporary birthstone for August, and as well as it’s use in August birthstone jewelry is the gem selected to celebrate the sixteenth wedding anniversary. This particular precious stone is a variety of olivine which is an amalgamation of two minerals, foylite and forsterite. It is still quite uncertain where the word peridot derives from, whether it is from the French word peritot, which means unclear or the word for gem in Arabic, faridat. Whatever the case may be the French called this attractive green stone, peridot in the 18th century. Before this time the Peridot gemstone was just called topaz.

For 4000 years peridot has been mined as a gemstone and is even discussed in the Bible under the Hebrew name of, pitdah. Peridot is the state gem of Egypt and was a favorite of Egyptians from at least three thousand years ago. It was called the “gem of the sun” because miners from long ago believed that it shone with a light that made the gemstone easier to find. This exquisite jewel is becoming increasingly popular because of the historical legend identifying it as the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra.

Description of the Peridot Jewel

Over the years this precious August gemstone has frequently been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone is usually described as a light sea green with tinges of yellow. Some gems incorrectly identified as the peridot are garnets, apatite, zircon and emeralds, all of which seldom have the attractive hint of yellow that looks so attractive with the peridot’s green color.

The Quality of Peridot Gemstones

Peridots with less than 17% iron and trace elements chromium and nickel are of the best quality. Peridot is found in Mexico, Australia, Pakistan, Brazil, Germany, Ethiopia and the USA. In the past the best quality peridot came from Egypt but a number of outstanding specimens have been found in Pakistan that some think are even finer. The gems derived from Arizona are of inferior quality but are more abundant, so making them much more affordable for many people. Around 85 – 95% of global production comes from Arizona. The gemstones produced in Egypt and Pakistan are far rarer and of better quality and therefore are more expensive.

Magical Powers of the Peridot

This  beautiful August birthstone symbolizes success and dignity and it is also thought of a shield for the body as it defends against negativity. It’s also linked with reduction of stress and relaxation. The Egyptians used this jewel to heal and clean the heart. Various sicknesses such as fever and asthma were cured by placing some powdered peridot beneath the tongue. Another belief is that it’s powers are amplified by setting it in gold.

August Birthstone Jewelry

Peridot is a gorgeous jewel and is becoming increasingly fashionable. Peridot  gems can be enjoyable items to collect and they make lovely August birthstone jewelry gifts.