The birthstone for August is peridot, a bright green gemstone that shines like the sun. This stone is very special and has been loved for thousands of years. It is believed to bring happiness, protection, and good luck to those who wear it. People have used peridot for many reasons, from jewelry to spiritual healing. Let’s explore everything about this magical August birthstone!

What is Peridot?

Peridot is a beautiful green gemstone that comes from deep inside the earth. It is made of a mineral called olivine, which forms when volcanoes erupt. Peridot is one of the only gemstones that always comes in one color—green! However, the shade of green can be different. Some peridots are yellow-green, while others are deep olive green. The color depends on how much iron is inside the stone.

Why is Peridot the August Birthstone?

Each month has a special gemstone, and peridot stone was chosen for August because of its bright and sunny color. August is a summer month, full of sunshine and warmth. Peridot’s green glow reminds people of nature, growth, and fresh energy, making it a perfect match for August birthdays.

The History of Peridot

Peridot has a long and interesting history. Thousands of years ago, people in ancient Egypt mined peridot from a small island called Zabargad. Egyptian kings and queens loved peridot and believed it had magical powers. The stone was called the “gem of the sun” because it shined brightly even at night.

Ancient Romans also loved peridot. They called it the “evening emerald” because it looked bright and beautiful even in candlelight. Some historians think that Cleopatra’s famous green jewels were not emeralds but peridots!

Where is Peridot Found?

Peridot is found in many places around the world. Some of the best peridots come from:

• Egypt – The first and most famous place where peridot was found.

• Pakistan – Produces very bright green peridots.

• Myanmar (Burma) – Has some of the finest and rarest peridots.

• United States (Arizona, Hawaii) – Arizona has a large supply of peridot, and Hawaii has peridots formed from volcanic lava.

• China, Vietnam, Sri Lanka – These countries also have good-quality peridot stones.

Some peridots have even been found in space! Scientists discovered tiny peridot crystals inside meteorites that fell to Earth. This makes peridot one of the only gemstones that come from outer space.

What Makes Peridot Special?

Peridot is not just beautiful—it is also believed to have many special powers. People say that peridot:

• Brings good luck and happiness – It is called a “lucky stone” that attracts success and joy.

• Protects from bad energy – Ancient people thought peridot could keep away evil spirits.

• Helps with love and relationships – Some say peridot makes friendships and love stronger.

• Gives energy and strength – It is believed to help people feel fresh and full of life.

• Helps with sleep – Some people put peridot under their pillow to stop bad dreams.

Peridot in Jewelry

Peridot is a popular choice for jewelry because of its bright color and shine. It is used in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Many people like peridot because it is unique and stands out. It looks great with gold or silver settings.

How to Take Care of Peridot

Peridot is not as hard as some other gemstones, so it needs to be handled carefully. Here are some tips to keep peridot jewelry beautiful:

• Keep it away from hard surfaces to avoid scratches.

• Clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.

• Do not expose it to strong chemicals like perfume or cleaning products.

• Store it separately from other jewelry to prevent damage.

Who Should Wear Peridot?

Peridot is the birthstone for August, but anyone can wear it. It is especially good for people who want more happiness and positive energy. Some people believe peridot is lucky for those born under the zodiac sign Leo (July 23 – August 22) and Virgo (August 23 – September 22).

Fun Facts About Peridot

• Peridot is one of the only gemstones that comes in just one color—green.

• It is sometimes called the “evening emerald.”

• The largest peridot ever found weighs over 300 carats.

• Some peridots come from space, found in meteorites.

• Ancient Egyptians believed peridot protected them from nightmares.

• Peridot is formed deep inside the Earth’s mantle and comes to the surface through volcanoes.

Conclusion

Peridot is a magical and beautiful gemstone with a long history. It is the birthstone for August and is loved for its bright green color and positive energy. Whether you wear it for good luck, protection, or just because it looks amazing, peridot is a special stone that has been treasured for centuries. If you have an August birthday, consider wearing peridot—it’s your lucky gem!