August’s birthstone is the beautiful peridot

One of the most often neglected birth stones is peridot.  This is a pity since I think the gem is absolutely beautiful.  When clients say they don’t like their birthstone, they have only seen the more commercial material, more drab and olivey green.  When I pull out one of the Pakistani peridots, in a fiery granny smith apple green, their eyes light up! The velvety yellow-green peridot (pronounced pair-a-dough) is the modern August birthstone and the gem designated for the 16th wedding anniversary.

The purer green a peridot is, the higher its value. Peridot ranges between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, so it should be treated with care when worn.

Personally, I think peridots are gorgeous, looking wonderful against just about any skin color. Because this gem stone is a type of magnesium/iron silicate, it can range in color from light yellow-green to the intense bright green of new spring grass… or even look deep and lush as an olive.

Because of the way peridot splits and bends the rays of light passing through it, it has a velvety crisp appearance, a rich glow, and a slightly oily luster. They have a modern, chic appeal as well, and are quite affordable.

As all gem stones, peridots have their story. They are thought to bring the wearer good luck, peace, and success. Legend says that peridot was one of the favorite gemstones of Cleopatra and that some of the “emeralds” worn by her were actually peridot. Mined as a gemstone for thousands of years, peridots are mentioned in the Bible by the name of ‘Chrysolite.’

Some wear peridot stones for their powers including health, protection, and sleep. They are also said to attract love and calm while also soothing nerves and dispelling negative emotions.

The highest quality peridot gem stones come from Pakistan and Burma, Norway, islands of the Red Sea, and Hawaii. They are sometimes even found in meteorites.

I think the best place to find peridots are right inside my cases. Come see my beautiful collection of rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces that honor this month’s birthstone…. right here, at Aronstam Fine Jewelers.