Peridot - August's Birthstone

This citrusy lime green gemstone is distinctive in colour and structure. Most gems colour's are caused by the traces of other elements and their compositions. What's unique about Peridot is that it's beauty is caused by extreme conditions. Peridot is found in the rocks created by volcanoes and even by meteors that fall to earth. When there is tremendous heat and pressure, peridot is formed!




The ancient Romans called peridot "evening emerald" since its green colour didn't darken at night and was quite visible by dim light. Peridot was often used to decorate medieval churches carried back to Europe by the Crusadors. There are peridots that weigh more than 200 carats in size that adorn the shrine of the three magi at the Cologne Cathedral.

Peridot rates a hardness scale of 6.5 which is generally lower than most gems. Peridot should be handled with care and only cleaned with mild dish soap and water.

Peridot is said to keep the whole body from negativity. Egyptians believed that wearing the peridot gemstone would clean the body and heal the heart.