Birthstone for August

Mohs hardness 6.5 - 7
Mineral Class - Olivine (composed of favalite and forsterite)
Symbol – Married Happiness

It is also the recognized gift for the 16th wedding anniversary.

Alternate Birthstones: Sardonyx and Tourmaline

It was first mined by the ancient Egyptians on the island of Zebargad in the Red Sea. Peridot has been found in Egyptian jewelry from the early 2nd millennium B.C.. It is often called, 'chrysolite', from the Greek 'gold stone', and 'olivine', for the peridot is the gemstone form of the mineral olivine. Its color is its most important quality, and can range from yellow green to a striking chartreuse, fine pistachio to olive green . The Romans called peridot "evening emerald" because its green color was said to glow at night.

Peridot has been credited with a host of magical powers and its power was considered most potent when the stone was set in gold. Prized by the ancient Egyptians as the gem of the sun, peridot has been credited with a host of healing properties and magical powers. A guard against the evil eye, peridot was thought to sweeten dreams, a powerful amulet against evil, particularly terrors of the night, and reveal insights. Peridot offered protection from depression and deception in Roman times It was used for inspiration and eloquence in the Middle Ages, and was also used to cure liver disease and promote friendship. In general, it was believed to ensure good thoughts in the mind of the wearer. Historically, peridot was believed to bring happiness, attract love and foster friendship. Gem of bliss and good fortune, peridot illuminates the sunny disposition of those who wear it.

Peridot is mined in Brazil, China, Egypt, Germany, Italy, Norway, Myanmar (formerly know as Burma), Sri Lanka, USA, Africa, Australia, and in Pakistan.

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