The birthstone for August is the peridot, with its wonderful olive-green color. Peridot ranges from a delicate lime green to a deep green that resembles emerald. In the past, peridot was often mistaken for emerald, but in the end it is always one color: green.
Properties of Peridot
Peridot forms inside volcanoes, so this birthstone comes from deep within the Earth. On its journey from the Earth's core to the surface, peridot easily loses its gemstone quality. The fact that peridot's green glow does not change even in artificial light makes this stone all the more special.
Peridot should be cleaned once a month. You can do this by immersing it in demineralized water. The stone then needs to be recharged by placing it in the sun or next to a piece of rock crystal.
The main sources of peridot are Myanmar, the United States, Egypt, Russia, Ireland and China.
Meaning of the Leo Stone
Peridot symbolizes inner growth, self-confidence, nature and calm. It is also called the "sun stone" because of its intense olive-green color. In the past, peridot was believed to protect against negative influences and bad dreams. Placed on the head, it strengthens intuition; worn close to the heart, or as an earring, it brings a clear mind and quick reactions.
History of the Leo Stone
Pirates were fascinated by this gemstone. They used it as an amulet to protect against every form of evil. They also believed that peridot combined with gold protected them at night.
The Leo stone was also used to make goblets for drinking medicine, as it was thought to strengthen the effect of remedies. Historians now believe that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection actually consisted of peridots.
The August Birthstone
Besides being the August birthstone, peridot is also linked to the zodiac signs Leo and Virgo. If you like, you can use peridot to create jewelry inspired by your zodiac sign too.
Leo July 23 – August 22: ruby and peridot
Virgo August 23 – September 22: peridot and sapphire
So Leo can choose between the July birthstone, ruby, and the August stone, peridot. Virgo can go for the August stone or opt for blue sapphire instead.
The Leo Stone at Mama Jewels
Besides jewelry with the August birthstone, our store offers a wide collection of birthstone jewelry. If you would like to create a one-of-a-kind piece with peridot, you can do that in our studio. One of our experienced goldsmiths will work with you to explore the possibilities of setting a peridot in a ring, pendant or bracelet.
Order the Peridot Birthstone Online
Gemstone jewelry is often unique and not available in a range of standard sizes. If you want to order a peridot ring online, we will make it to size in our studio. Take a look at our instructions to find the right ring size. Besides rings, we can use peridot to create beautiful pendants in silver or gold.
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