Peridot Meaning (2023)

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by Suzanne Sachs  5 min read

peridot-rings

THE BASICS --

Anyone who loves the bright, vibrant greens of late summer and the hints of yellow that mark early fall will love the official August birthstone, Peridot. This brilliant gemstone is just as bright and cheerful as the sunny days it represents, and learning more about Peridot can help you appreciate and enjoy this colorful stone even more.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

  • What is Peridot?
  • Peridot color
  • Mines
  • History
  • Meaning and symbolism
  • Mystical and healing
  • Royalty
  • Birthstone
  • Choosing a Peridot ring
  • Other August birthstones

    What is Peridot?

    Peridot is the mineral olivine, a type of magnesium iron silicate. While this mineral is relatively widespread, it does weather quickly and gem-quality peridot crystals are quite rare. This mineral, however, has been found in meteorites and cometary dust, making peridot truly an out-of-this-world gemstone.

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    • Peridot Color

    Unlike most other gemstones, peridot only comes in one color – green – though the hues can vary depending on the amount of iron in the stone’s structure. A rich grass green is the most common shade, but lighter yellow-green hues as well as darker olive green or brown tones are also possible. Darker, richer shades are the rarest and considered the most valuable.

    peridot-meaning

    Mines

    Peridot has been mined since as early as 300 B.C., and today it is found in many mines around the world. Gem mines in Arizona are the richest sources of peridot, and other mines are found around the United States in Arkansas, Hawaii, Nevada, and New Mexico. Peridot is also mined worldwide, with resources in South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Tanzania, Pakistan, Egypt, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, China, Norway, and other countries.

     peridot-rings

    History

    Peridot has been a popular jewelry stone since ancient Egypt, and it is now believed that much of Queen Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may actually have been peridot, since the two stones were often confused before modern gemological studies made it easier to distinguish them. Peridot stones are also part of the Russian crown jewels. Peridot stones are often tumbled as beads, or can be faceted into any gemstone shape.  

    peridot-rings

    Meaning and Symbolism

    Mystical and Healing

    Peridot has long been associated with the sun, and it is believed to help brighten one’s wit and eloquence, as well as promote responsibility, forgiveness, and compassion. Its bright tones can also help overcome jealousy and depression, and peridot has been worn as a talisman against sorcery, evil spirits, and madness since ancient times. More modern crystal healing has advocated peridot to help promote peaceful sleep.

    peridot-rings

    • Royalty

    Peridot has been venerated by royalty. Peridot is the official national gemstone of Egypt, and is associated with the Hindu goddess of good fortune and abundance, Lakshmi. Peridot is also considered to be the tears of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes.

    peridot-meaning

    • Birthstone

    Not only is peridot the official birthstone of August, but it is also the official anniversary gemstone for the sixteenth wedding anniversary, as well as an alternate selection for the first wedding anniversary.

    peridot-engagement-rings

    Choosing a Peridot Ring

    Today, peridot is used in all types of jewelry, and is usually set in gold. White gold will help brighten the stone and showcase its color, while yellow gold accentuates yellow tones within the stone. Peridot, which has a high natural transparency, can be brilliant on its own, or is often paired with diamonds for extra sparkle. Vintage rings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and other types of jewelry often feature peridot, but it is important to note that the stone is relatively soft and great care should be taken if it is worn in rings, to ensure it is not scratched or chipped.

    peridot-rings

    Other August Birthstones

    While peridot is popular for August birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions, it is not the only gem associated with this month. At different times, sardonyx, spinel, moonstone, and topaz have all been symbolically representative of August, and each one would make a lovely gemstone choice for any piece of jewelry. The August Zodiac signs also have their own associated gemstones, with Leo (July 23 to August 23) connecting with onyx and Virgo (August 24 to September 22) connecting with carnelian.

    topaz-rings

    Peridot Rings For Everyone:

    No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

    Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

    Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of peridot rings today!

    Suzanne Sachs

    Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you – your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.

    Press Love:

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