Peridot is the modern birthstone for August, and in addition to being used in August birthstone jewelry is the gemstone designated to mark the 16th wedding anniversary. This particular gem is a variety of olivine which is a combination of 2 minerals, forsterite and foylite. It is still quite uncertain where the word peridot derives from, whether it is derived from the French word which means unclear, peritot, or the Arabic word faridat, meaning gem. Whatever the case may be it was first called peridot by the French in the 18th century. Before then the Peridot jewel was simply called topaz.

For more than four thousand years peridot has been mined as a gemstone and is even mentioned in the Bible under the Hebrew name of, pitdah. Peridot is the national gemstone of Egypt and was a favorite of Egyptians from at least 1500 B.C. It was named the “gem of the sun” since miners from long ago believed that it shone with a green light that made the gemstone easier to locate. This lovely gemstone is becoming increasingly popular because of the historical legend identifying it as the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra.

Description of the Peridot Precious Stone

Over the years this precious August precious stone has often been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone is usually described as a light olive green with hints of yellow. The most commonly known gems confused with the peridot are apatite, zircon, garnets and emeralds, even though these hardly ever have the pretty tint of yellow that looks so attractive with the peridot’s green color.

The Quality of Peridot Gemstones

Peridots having less than 17% iron and the trace elements nickel and chromium are considered to be the finest. Peridot is produced in Pakistan, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Ethiopia, Austalia and the USA. In the past the highest quality peridot was found in Egypt however some significant crystals have been found in Pakistan that challenge this claim. The gemstones derived from Arizona are of lesser quality but are more plentiful, which makes them more affordable for many people. Approximately 85 – 95% of world production is from Arizona. The gemstones produced in Egypt and Pakistan are far rarer and of better quality and thus are more expensive.

Mystical Powers of the Peridot

This  attractive August birthstone symbolizes dignity and it’s also thought of armor for for all the body as it defends against negativity. It is also linked with stress reduction and relaxation. The Egyptians used this jewel to heal and clean the heart. Some illnesses such as fever and asthma were cured by placing crushed peridot under the tongue. Another belief is that it’s powers are amplified by setting it in gold.

August Birthstone Jewelry

Peridot is a gorgeous precious stone in its own right and is becoming very popular. Peridot  gems can be fun items to collect and they make lovely August birthstone jewelry gifts.