What is August’s Birthstone?

Are you born in August? Whether it’s your birthday or you’re shopping for someone special, there’s no better way to celebrate than with the month’s signature gem. Peridot isn’t just a vibrant green stone; it carries centuries of history, meaning, and a touch of magic. Read on to learn more about Peridot and how to care for it.

What is August’s Birthstone?

The most well known Birthstone for August is the beautiful, bright green gemstone called Peridot. Although August birthstones also include Spinel and Sardonyx, jewellers have found Peridot to be the most popular choice for an august birthday gift or anniversary present as Peridot is the gemstone dedicated to 16th wedding anniversaries too. From engagement rings and earrings to tennis bracelets and gemstone pendants, we can help find you a stunning piece of jewellery you’ll wear for many years.

August Birthstone Jewellery: Why Peridot Stands Out

• Bright, lively green: Ranges from yellow-green to olive tones, flattering in all skin tones.
• Affordable luxury: Offers emerald-style colour at a fraction of the price.
• Versatile settings: From Peridot engagement rings to drop earrings, it pairs beautifully with both diamonds and different precious metals.

The History of Peridot 

Peridot is the birthstone for August, and its greenish-yellow to yellowish green gem comes from the mineral olivine. The gem was first discovered as early as 1500 B.C. Records have indicated that the first discovery of Peridot stones was found on Topazo Island (now known as St. John’s) in the Egyptian Red Sea.

According to legend, people who lived on the island were forced to mine and collect Peridot stones day and night for the Pharaoh’s treasury. At night, Topazo Island’s residents could spot the green gemstone due to its stunning glow, and for this reason, the Ancient Egyptians referred to the Peridot as the gem of the sun.

Peridots are also connected to Hawaiian culture, as the gem is thought to be the tears of the volcano goddess “Pele”. The sand on Big Island’s Papakolea Beach has a stunning green hue, which is down to having a high amount of crushed olivine on the beach.

What Does Peridot Mean?

Peridot’s glowing green is long associated with:

• Healing & renewal – Promotes regeneration of mind and body.
• Positivity & creativity – Encourages fresh ideas and emotional balance.
• Abundance & prosperity – Linked to financial success and growth.

How to care for your Green Gemstone Jewellery

As Peridot is softer than other gem types, you should take care with the jewellery cleaning process. You should use a soft brush with mild fairy liquid in warm water to clean the gem and avoid using an ultrasonic cleaner as the gem is at risk of thermal shock and this can damage your precious jewellery. Once you’ve cleaned your Peridot jewellery, it should be stored safely to avoid the gem getting scratched.

Shop Diamond Heaven’s August Birthstone Collection

Unsure which Peridot piece to choose? Our team of experts will be able to help you find the perfect jewellery piece. Book an appointment and we’ll help you find your ideal Peridot piece. Shop with confidence with our 0% finance options which allow you to spread the cost into affordable monthly payments with a 10% deposit minimum.