August's Warm Green Birthstone is Peridot

August's Warm Green Birthstone is Peridot

Peridot, a variety of olivine, is the designated birthstone for those born oin the month of August. It's an ancient gem that has a color of its own, an olive green.

In the past, peridot is frequently confused with other green gems, particularly emeralds. When the stone is viewed under an artificial light, peridot has that beautiful glow of green that emeralds exhibit. Peridot is sometimes referred to as evening emerald.

As with other old gemstones, peridot has been included in various myths and legends. Early Egyptian priests believed that drinking from a cup made of peridot would bring them closer to the goddess of nature, Isis. 

Additionally, pharaohs and queens often used peridot stones to embellish their royal adornments including headdresses along with other gems and precious metals. In the Medieval Period, peridots are popularly crafted for ornaments and a favorite gem in decorating churches, altars, and different relics such as chalices and crucifixes.

In crystal lore, wearing peridot brings harmony, relaxation and calmness due to its luminous glow. The stone embodies fortune, success, happiness and peace both in marital and business aspects. It is also believed to be a healing stone, subduing fever, asthma and sinus problems. As a talisman, peridot is said to protect its wearer from all forms of evil and preferably worn when asleep to avoid nightmares. 

Although peridot occurs in one signature color, the intensity and the shade of green is primarily determined by the quantity of iron present in its crystal structure. Consequently, the tint of the stone may occur in yellow to pale olive green to brownish green. The most valued color features dark olive-green. Peridot can range from 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it considerably durable but precious.

At Davidson & Co., we are proud to offer an extensive range of exquisite jewelry in different colored stones such as peridot. All our stunning pieces from pendants to bracelets, earrings and rings look perfect against any precious metal.
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