August Birthstone Spotlight: Peridot Questions, Style, & Meaning

By Oster Jewelers | August 1, 2025 0 Comments

Peridot is more than just August’s birthstone. Sourced from volcanic islands and cosmic meteorites, this mesmerizing gem carries an intensity few green stones can match. Its natural glow is never enhanced or treated, making it a rare expression of purity and inner clarity. From its intriguing origins to its vibrant symbolism, we’re answering everything you’ve ever wanted to know about August’s radiant birthstone, peridot.

How is Peridot formed?

Peridot is a naturally occurring gemstone formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle. It rises to the surface through volcanic eruptions, making it one of the few fine gemstones born directly of fire. On rare occasions, peridot has even been discovered in meteorites, adding an otherworldly touch to this already extraordinary gem.

What colors does peridot come in?

Found only in shades of green, peridot’s color ranges from soft golden-lime to rich olive, depending on its natural iron content. Unlike many colored gemstones, peridot is never heat-treated or enhanced, giving each stone a unique, untouched radiance.

How did peridot get the nickname the “Evening Emerald?”

Peridot gained the nickname “evening emerald” for the way its vivid green color remains luminous even in low light. Unlike deeper emeralds that can fade into shadow, peridot catches and reflects the softest evening glow. Its natural brilliance gives peridot a fresh, almost ethereal radiance that holds its own from day to dusk.

Does peridot carry any symbolism and meaning?

Peridot’s use as a symbol of protection spans across a multitude of civilizations dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians believed peridot could ward off evil spirits, dissolve negative energy, and act as a shield against nightmares. In Hawaiian culture, peridot symbolizes the tears of volcanic goddess Pele, with tiny crystals still being found in Hawaii’s black sand beaches.

Roman priests once used peridot in religious ceremonies, believing it could draw them closer to nature and the divine. In medieval Europe, peridot was set into church treasures and worn by nobility to ward off evil, dispel jealousy, and bring peace. Today, peridot is still worn as a talisman of strength and emotional resilience. It is perfect for those drawn to crystal healing, chakra alignment, or simply peridot’s enduring beauty.

What chakra does peridot represent, and why?

Peridot is associated with the heart chakra, making it a powerful gemstone for emotional balance, compassion, and unconditional love. Its vibrant green hue, naturally rich with golden undertones, resonates with the energy of healing and renewal. When worn close to the heart, peridot is believed to encourage openness, emotional clarity, and a deeper connection to others. It’s a stone for releasing past hurt and inviting in joy, making it especially meaningful for those seeking inner peace and emotional growth.

Why is peridot August’s birthstone?

Its vibrant color and rich symbolism made it the perfect choice to represent the month of warmth, abundance, and light. Today, peridot remains a meaningful and stylish choice for those celebrating August birthdays or simply drawn to the elegance of this captivating gemstone.

How can I style peridot?

From studs to drops, hoops to pendants, peridot proves that vibrant color and sophistication can go hand in hand. Sophisticated peridot studs and dynamic hoop dangles offer a crisp pop of verdant green, perfectly scaled for everyday wear with just the right flash of light. Peridot also wears spectacularly well when paired with other colorful gemstones, like on these captivating London blue topaz drops or this gorgeous ocean-themed gemstone cluster pendant that evokes the essence of summer’s light all at once. And for those who favor a modern aesthetic, a single 18k yellow gold hoop pavé set with peridot and finished with a dangling pear-cut drop, brings luxe detail to a second or third piercing with fashion-forward chicness.

Whether you’re celebrating an August birthday or simply drawn to its vibrant energy, peridot makes a meaningful and luxurious gift. Its luminous green glow is a beautiful reminder to honor joy, renewal, and your own inner light. Explore peridot jewelry online at OsterJewelers.com or visit our boutique in Cherry Creek North, Denver, Colorado.

Shop the August Birthstone Peridot Collection