Wed, 06 May 2026 16:10:35 +0000

You’ve Never Seen the August Birthstone Until Now — Discover Its Hidden Beauty August’s birthstone — the luminous peridot — is a gem that often goes unnoticed in the shadow of its more famous counterparts like sapphires and rubies. But now, for the very first time, we’re shining a spotlight on this verdant treasure you’ve likely never seen up close. From its striking color to its rich history and symbolic meaning, the peridot is far more than just a birthstone—it’s a gem with a story you’ll want to know. ### What Is the August Birthstone?
The peridot is gem-quality olivine, celebrated for its rich palette of olive green to bright yellow-green hues. While many associate August with sapphires, the peridot stands out as a unique and vibrant alternative with a history that dates back millennia. Unlike stones formed deep within the Earth, peridots crystallize near the Earth’s surface, often in volcanic environments, giving each stone an earthy authenticity. ### The Amazing Origins of Peridot
Peridot’s legacy stretches back to ancient times. The Egyptians revered it as “the gem of the sun,” believing it provided protection against nightmares and malicious energy. Legend holds that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have included peridots, though recent research suggests some belonging to the ancient Egyptian peridot pools of St. John’s Island (modern-day Egypt’s Red Sea region).