August is the month when summer is in full swing — long golden evenings, bright blooms, and a joyful burst of colour in every direction. In the world of jewellery, no stone reflects this warmth and vibrancy better than Peridot, the official birthstone of August. With its fresh green hue, often kissed with golden undertones, Peridot brings a lively sparkle to any outfit. Beyond its beauty, it’s a gemstone steeped in fascinating history, rich symbolism, and endless styling possibilities.
A Gemstone with a Glorious Past
Peridot’s history stretches back over 3,500 years. Ancient Egyptians mined it on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, and it was so highly prized that Cleopatra herself is believed to have worn it, mistaking it for her beloved emeralds. Known to them as the Gem of the Sun, Peridot was thought to harness the warmth of sunlight and protect the wearer from the dangers of the night.
Throughout history, Peridot travelled across cultures and continents. Crusaders brought it to Europe in the Middle Ages, where it adorned churches and was thought to ward off evil spirits. The stone was also popular in Hawaiian culture, where Peridot crystals found in volcanic rock were considered to be the tears of Pele, the goddess of fire. Its natural brilliance and resilience have ensured that Peridot remains a treasured gemstone to this day.
Symbolism and Meaning
Beyond its visual appeal, Peridot carries a wealth of meaning:
Positivity and Renewal – Often associated with new beginnings, Peridot is believed to refresh the mind and spirit.
Prosperity and Abundance – Its green hue links it to growth, wealth, and good fortune.
Protection and Peace – Historically worn as a talisman, it was thought to keep negative energies at bay.
Emotional Balance – Many believe Peridot encourages harmony in relationships and reduces feelings of jealousy or resentment.
Whether or not you subscribe to these beliefs, there’s no denying that Peridot’s uplifting colour alone has the power to brighten a mood.
Peridot’s Distinctive Beauty
Unlike many gemstones, Peridot’s colour comes from its chemical composition rather than impurities, which means its vibrant green is truly natural. Shades can range from a light lime to a deeper olive, depending on the amount of iron in the stone. Under warm light, Peridot almost glows, making it an ideal gem for summer wear.
Styling Peridot Jewellery for Summer and Beyond
Peridot’s fresh green is surprisingly versatile and can be styled for both everyday wear and special occasions:
Casual Daywear – A dainty Peridot pendant paired with a floaty summer dress or a crisp linen shirt adds a hint of elegance without feeling overdone.
Statement Evenings – For a bolder look, try drop earrings or layered Peridot necklaces with white, gold, or black evening wear to let the colour pop.
Festival Vibes – Chunky beaded Peridot bracelets or mixed-gemstone designs channel a fun, bohemian spirit perfect for music festivals or outdoor events.
Office Chic – Pair a slim Peridot bracelet with neutral tones like grey or navy to add subtle colour to your work wardrobe.
Combining Peridot with Other Gemstones
One of Peridot’s charms is its ability to harmonise with other stones:
Citrine for a golden summer glow
Amethyst for an elegant purple-green contrast
Turquoise for a vibrant, beach-ready look
Pearls for a fresh and classic style
Mixing gemstones not only enhances Peridot’s unique beauty but also creates personalised jewellery combinations.
Caring for Your Peridot Jewellery
Peridot is a durable gemstone, but it’s softer than sapphires or diamonds, so a little extra care will keep it looking its best:
Cleaning – Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
Storage – Keep it separate from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Remove Peridot jewellery when swimming or cleaning.
With proper care, your Peridot pieces will maintain their sparkle for many summers to come.
The Perfect August Gift
As the birthstone for August, Peridot makes a thoughtful birthday present, but it’s also perfect for celebrating anniversaries, milestones, or simply adding a joyful splash of colour to someone’s collection. Whether set in silver for a modern, fresh feel, or gold to highlight its warm undertones, Peridot is a gemstone that always stands out.
Why We Love Peridot at Silver Sensations
At Silver Sensations, we adore working with peridot coloured crystals for their luminous colour, sparkle and uplifting energy. These peridot colour heart shaped crystals in the image, are from the world respected crystal company in Austria. Our handmade designs simulate its natural beauty, offering everything from delicate, everyday pieces to bold statement jewellery. Each peridot coloured crystal item is crafted with care, ensuring you enjoy jewellery that’s as special and unique as you are.