August birthstone: peridot

If you were born in August, peridot is your birthstone. It is an olive to yellowish green stone with a fresh, bright colour. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one colour: green, in a whole range of shades.

Colour: Olive to yellowish green
Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 – 7
Alternative stones: Spinel and sardonyx

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A stone from the depths

Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine. It forms deep within the earth and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot has even been found in meteorites, although the stones used in jewellery simply come from the earth.

Peridot in vintage jewellery

Around 1900 peridot was popular in fine, delicate jewellery, often combined with pearls or small diamonds. You also see it in later cocktail rings. Its green colour combines beautifully with yellow gold.

Also for August: spinel and sardonyx

Spinel occurs in red, pink and blue and was mistaken for ruby for centuries. Sardonyx, with bands of reddish brown and white, can be seen in antique cameos. Read more about peridot and spinel.

Caring for peridot

Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. A peridot ring can be worn often, but take it off for heavy work. Clean it with lukewarm water and mild soap.

Frequently asked questions

What colour is peridot?

Always green, from olive to yellowish green.

Which other stones are there for August?

Spinel and sardonyx are also mentioned.

Is peridot hard enough for a ring?

Yes, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7. Do take the ring off for sport and heavy work.

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