August boasts two captivating birthstones: Peridot and Spinel. Peridot’s vibrant green is associated with sun, clarity, and balance, while Spinel offers a colorful range, famed for its hardness and brilliance. Both gems hold rich histories and unique allure. Discover the magic of these August treasures.
august BIRTHSTONE peridot & Spinel
Peridot: The Radiant Green Gem of August
Peridot, the captivating birthstone for August, dazzles with its fresh green hues and vibrant energy. Often referred to as the “gem of the sun,” this luminous stone is deeply associated with renewal, vitality, and inner harmony—qualities that perfectly align with those born in the heart of summer.
Formed deep within the Earth’s mantle—and occasionally delivered to us from space via rare meteorites—Peridot’s origins are as fascinating as its glow. Its distinct colour spectrum, ranging from bright lime to deep olive green, reflects nature’s warmth and abundance, capturing the essence of the August-born spirit.
In 2025, Peridot is enjoying a stylish renaissance in the world of fine jewellery. From modern bezel-set rings to layered mixed-gem pendants, designers are embracing its cheerful tone as part of a broader shift toward bold, meaningful self-expression. Whether showcased in sculptural gold or paired with other colourful stones, Peridot is becoming a favourite for those seeking originality and optimism in their pieces.
More than just a gemstone, Peridot is a celebration of light, life, and transformation, making it a truly timeless treasure for every generation.
What is Peridot ?
Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate rich in iron and magnesium. Its vivid green colour—always within the same spectrum—is determined by the amount of iron present in the crystal structure. Unlike many gemstones, which occur in various colours, Peridot is distinctive in that it forms only in green, with shades ranging from soft yellow-green to deep olive.
This brilliant gemstone is formed in the Earth’s upper mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Some of the most prized Peridot in the world comes from the Kashmir region of Pakistan, the ancient mines of Myanmar (Burma), and the volcanic plains of Arizona in the United States. Uniquely, Peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones known to have both terrestrial and extraterrestrial origins.
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear with appropriate care. It boasts excellent transparency and a distinctive glow, thanks to its high birefringence and glassy lustre. These qualities make Peridot a standout gem in both timeless heirlooms and contemporary fine jewellery designs.
History and Lore of Peridot
Peridot has fascinated civilisations for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians mined it as early as 1,500 BCE on the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. They revered it as the “gem of the sun” and believed it held protective powers, capable of warding off evil and bringing strength to the wearer. It is widely thought that many of Cleopatra’s famous emeralds were, in fact, Peridot—misidentified due to their rich green colour.
The Romans admired Peridot for its captivating glow under lamplight and often used it in rings and ornamental pieces. During the medieval period, European clergy incorporated Peridot into church relics and royal jewellery, associating it with divine light and protection against malevolent forces.
In Hawaiian mythology, Peridot is said to represent the tears of Pele, the fiery goddess of volcanoes, linking the stone to themes of creation, destruction, and natural power. This deep connection to Earth’s fiery core reinforces its symbolism of life, transformation, and elemental energy.
Across cultures and centuries, Peridot has remained a symbol of abundance, healing, and light—respected not only for its beauty but also for its spiritual and protective qualities.
Symbolism and Meaning of Peridot
Peridot has long been treasured as a stone of renewal, emotional clarity, and positive energy. Closely associated with the Heart Chakra, it is believed to encourage compassion, nurture emotional healing, and strengthen inner peace. Its gentle green glow is said to soothe stress, dissolve feelings of jealousy or resentment, and create space for forgiveness and understanding.
Traditionally, Peridot has also been seen as a guardian stone—used to ward off negative influences and promote a sense of emotional resilience. Its balancing properties are thought to align the heart and mind, helping individuals make clearer decisions with confidence and calm.
For those born in August, Peridot carries even deeper personal meaning. It is regarded as a symbol of growth, joy, and transformation—qualities that reflect the peak of summer and the fullness of life. Many believe it supports new beginnings, deepens connections in relationships, and provides the courage to face change with optimism.
Wearing or carrying Peridot is also said to stimulate creativity and attract prosperity, making it a powerful talisman for anyone on a journey of self-discovery or reinvention. Whether appreciated for its spiritual significance or simply admired for its beauty, Peridot continues to be a timeless gemstone of light and emotional strength.
Peridot in 2025: Emerging Jewellery Trends
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In 2025, Peridot is experiencing a vibrant revival in the world of fine and bespoke jewellery. As consumers increasingly seek meaningful, mood-lifting pieces and responsibly sourced materials, Peridot’s fresh green hues and natural brilliance have cemented its place as a standout gemstone for modern collectors and designers alike.
Leading trends shaping Peridot jewellery this year include:
Bold Yellow Gold Settings: Peridot set in thick, sculptural yellow gold is making a statement in cocktail rings and signet styles. This trend reflects a broader return to vintage-inspired glamour with a contemporary twist.
Layered Gemstone Combinations: Designers are blending Peridot with pearls, pastel sapphires, and tourmalines to create colourful, layered looks—especially in asymmetrical earrings and cluster pendants that express individuality.
Minimalist Solitaires: Clean-lined, bezel-set Peridot rings and pendants are gaining popularity among lovers of minimalist luxury. These understated pieces let the gemstone’s natural vibrance take centre stage.
Raw and Organic Forms: There’s a growing appreciation for freeform Peridot cuts and artisanal textures that highlight the gem’s natural origins. These designs celebrate imperfection and uniqueness—hallmarks of 2025’s jewellery aesthetic.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: Peridot is also finding its place in men’s and unisex jewellery collections, often set in brushed silver or matte black finishes, appealing to those seeking subtle sophistication with a touch of colour.
Peridot vs. Other August Birthstones
August is one of the rare months that boasts not just one, but three recognised birthstones: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel—each offering its own unique charm and symbolism.
Sardonyx
Striking banded variety of chalcedony, features alternating layers of reddish-brown and white. It has been used in jewellery for centuries, especially in carved cameos and intaglios, and is appreciated for its antique beauty and symbolic associations with courage and protection.
Spinel
Versatile gemstone known for its remarkable brilliance and colour range—from deep reds and vibrant pinks to blues, purples, and even pastel shades. Often mistaken for ruby or sapphire, Spinel has gained renewed popularity for its durability, vibrancy, and affordability within high-end jewellery.
Peridot
Stands apart for its exclusive green hue, natural clarity, and celestial associations. Unlike Sardonyx and Spinel, Peridot occurs in only one colour family—always green—ranging from light citrus tones to deep olive. Its luminous quality, connection to the Heart Chakra, and rare formation in both Earth and meteorites make it a gemstone of renewal, light, and transformation.
While each August birthstone holds its own beauty and meaning, Peridot remains a cherished choice for those seeking a gem that is both spiritually uplifting and effortlessly elegant—a stone that radiates individuality and emotional depth.
Spinel, often overshadowed by other gemstones, is a hidden gem with a captivating allure. Available in a rainbow of colours, from fiery reds to serene blues, spinel offers unique beauty and durability. Historically prized for its brilliance and believed to possess healing properties, this gemstone deserves more recognition. Discover the magic of spinel and elevate your jewellery collection.
The 4Cs of Spinel
Just like diamonds, the quality of a spinel is evaluated using the 4Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight.
- Color: The most striking feature of spinel, it comes in various hues. The most prized colours are intense reds, pinks, and rare blues.
- Clarity: Spinel is generally clear, but like other gemstones, inclusions can affect its value. Fewer inclusions mean higher clarity.
- Cut: A well-cut spinel maximises its brilliance and colour. The shape and proportions of the cut impact its overall appearance.
- Carat Weight: As with other gemstones, larger spinels are generally more valuable, but colour and clarity often outweigh carat weight.
Peridot, often called the “evening emerald,” is a vibrant green gemstone linked to the sun. Its history spans centuries, with ancient Egyptians believing it captured sunlight. While it shares some similarities with emeralds, peridot is distinct, known for its bright, cheerful green hue.
The 4Cs of Peridot
Just like diamonds, peridot is evaluated using the 4Cs:
- Color: The most desirable peridot colour is a pure, vivid green. Avoid stones with brown or yellow undertones.
- Clarity: While inclusions are common, a high-quality peridot will have minimal visible flaws.
- Cut: A well-cut peridot maximises its brilliance and colour.
- Carat Weight: Larger peridots are generally more valuable, but colour and clarity are more important factors.
Celebrities Who Adore Peridot
Peridot has captured the attention of celebrities and royals alike, gracing red carpets and exclusive collections around the world. Hollywood actress Olivia Wilde and Grammy Award-winning singer Adele have both been seen wearing Peridot jewellery, incorporating the gem’s vibrant green into their elegant, high-fashion ensembles.
In the United Kingdom, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has been photographed wearing Peridot pieces—further solidifying the gemstone’s association with modern royalty and refined taste.
Luxury design houses such as Bvlgari and Tiffany & Co. continue to feature Peridot in their high jewellery collections, highlighting its luminous quality and versatile charm. Whether set in minimalist creations or bold statement pieces, Peridot has earned a place among the most admired gemstones in contemporary fashion.
Its growing presence in both red carpet moments and couture design underscores its timeless appeal—and its ability to infuse any look with colour, warmth, and unmistakable character.
How to Care for Peridot Jewellery
Although Peridot is moderately durable, it thrives with thoughtful handling to preserve its vibrant lustre. To ensure its longevity, avoid exposing the gem to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or sudden temperature changes, which may cause internal stress or surface damage.
For routine care, gently clean your Peridot jewellery by soaking it in lukewarm water mixed with a mild soap. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth to remove any residue, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
When not in use, Peridot pieces should be stored separately in a fabric-lined box or soft pouch to prevent scratching, particularly from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Proper storage helps maintain its brilliance and prevents surface abrasions.
At Waldemar Jewellers, we take pride in ensuring each Peridot creation is not only beautifully crafted but also designed for durability. With proper care, your Peridot jewellery will continue to shine brightly—becoming a cherished piece for generations to come.
Custom Peridot Jewellery at Waldemar Jewellers
At Waldemar Jewellers, we honour the unique beauty of Peridot through bespoke craftsmanship. Our ethically sourced, high-quality Peridot gemstones are carefully selected and masterfully set in our Sydney studio, ensuring every piece reflects both luxury and intention.
Whether you desire a birthstone pendant, engagement ring, or a modern heirloom, our design team works closely with you to bring your vision to life. From sketch to final polish, each piece is handcrafted to embody your style, story, and sentiment.
Celebrate August with a luminous custom creation that speaks of elegance, harmony, and lasting beauty—only at Waldemar Jewellers.
