AUGUST BIRTHSTONE
TYPES OF AUGUST BIRTHSTONE
Typically, August birthstone has three types, known as peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. However, the ruling stone for this month is the peridot gemstone. It comprises green and yellow colors with possible mild undertones similar to the dominating hues. Green and olive-toned gems are more valuable as compared to yellow-toned ones. Peridots, at 10 carats or above, possess high-quality colors and are more expensive. The cheapest peridots have a brown color and the largest one in the world is present in the US. It weighs approximately 62.35 grams which are about 311.78 carats!
PERIDOT BIRTHSTONE
PERIDOT BIRTHSTONE MEANING & HISTORY
HISTORY OF PERIDOT
Peridots date back to ancient Egyptian times. Initially regarded as the stones of the sun, found on an island in the Red Sea called Zebargad. The inhabitants of the island mined peridots to add to the pharaoh’s treasury. However, the Egyptians kept the value of these stones a secret for a very long time. With the fall of their empire, traces to the island were lost, only to be rediscovered in 1906.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
This gem belongs to the mineral chrysolite or olivene. Its chemical formula is known as (Mg Fe) 2SiO4 and, it contains iron and magnesium. The iron traces are responsible for the yellow or green color of the peridot. These stones develop in volcanic rocks, also called basalt, which is rich in iron and magnesium. Peridots are a 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This gemstone is one of the two rare stones that form naturally in the earth’s mantle instead of its crust.
HEALING PROPERTIES
Peridot stones help in balancing emotions. Moreover, they remove feelings of hate, jealousy, bitterness and help instill positive emotions in an individual. Additionally, these stones help the wearer develop calmness in themselves by controlling anxiety and stress. Furthermore, peridot stones aid in feeling more motivated towards their passions and increase the activeness of the body. This gemstone also maintains the liver, gall bladder and is a cure for allergies such as sinus, asthma, and irritant eyes. Spiritually, peridot rules the Heart chakra. It balances out emotions to create harmony, peace, and joy.
The preferred color for peridot is a pure “grass” green without any hint of yellow or brown. Additionally, the large (364 ct) crystal is from the historic Red Sea source, Zabargad.
WHERE IS PERIDOT FOUND?
Peridots are located in Hawaii, Brazil, Pakistan, Australia, Norway, and China. The Canary Islands, Burma, Brazil, and Arizona also host them. However, some of the finest quality peridots are known to be provided by Burma, Brazil, and Arizona, even though they can be smaller in size. Other countries for peridots include Sri Lanka, Saudia Arabia, Myanmar, Egypt, South Africa, Nevada, and Tanzania.
A panoramic view of Mogok evokes the mythical city of Shangri La. Photo: Robert E. Kane
PERIDOT BIRTHSTONE CARE & CLEANING
Sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid can easily damage these precious gemstones. Remember to keep them away from them. While cleaning, avoid exposing the stone to steam and any ultrasonic cleaners. If cleaning at home, it is advisable to soak it in sudsy luke warm water to remove any dirt or stains. Brush off any remaining dust and pat dry with a soft cloth to avoid scratches. Store in a fabric lined box for maximum care. Try visiting a nearby jeweler once or twice a year to have your gemstone professionally cleaned. It will help maintain its luster and shine.
The 10.89 ct peridot in this platinum ring is surrounded by a halo of diamonds.
Now that you know a little bit more about the history of these three August birthstones and where they come from, These might just inspire you to add one or more of them to your jewellery collection! But before you go shopping for August birthstones, be sure to review our Peridot Buying Guide and our Spinel Buying Guide for tips to help you pick a beautiful August birthstone.