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Birthstones

August Birthstone: Peridot

Peridot is the birthstone for this month. This guide explains its color, character, durability, and how to choose and wear it.

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August Birthstone: Peridot

Updated: November 1, 2026

About Peridot

Peridot is green olivine, ranging from yellow-green to olive green. August birthstone peridots are usually lively lime to olive green.

Peridot has been mined since ancient Egypt, including on volcanic islands, and its green color comes from iron in the stone.

Color and Quality

The best peridots show vivid lime green without brown dominance, and look green in both daylight and indoor light.

Large peridots are more available than large stones of many species, since peridot often forms in larger clean crystals.

Durability and Wear

Peridot rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, softer than sapphire or diamond, so it needs care in daily rings.

Protective settings suit daily peridot rings, while pendants and earrings need less protection and show peridot color well.

Choosing and Gifting

Choose peridot by vivid lime green color and clean face-up appearance, preferring stones without brown zones.

Peridot suits August birthdays and sixteenth anniversaries traditionally, and pairs well with yellow gold and silver.

August Birthstone: Peridot FAQ

What color is August birthstone?

Lime to olive green peridot, with vivid lime green valued most.

Can peridot be worn daily?

Yes with care and a protective setting. It rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, softer than sapphire.

What does peridot mean?

Peridot traditionally means strength, protection, and good fortune, which suits August birthdays.

Is peridot expensive?

Most peridots are affordable, with larger vivid stones costing more.

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