Pretty Peridot: The August Birthstone
August’s birthstone, peridot, shines with a vibrant green hue that captivates and enchants. This gem, formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, brings a touch of nature’s splendor to those born in this summer month. Known for its striking color and unique properties, peridot has fascinated gem enthusiasts and historians alike for centuries. In this blog, we’ll delve into some fascinating facts about peridot that highlight why it deserves a special place in the world of gemstones.
Peridot's history dates back thousands of years, with its earliest use recorded in ancient Egypt. The gemstone was highly prized by the Egyptians and often used in jewelry for royalty. It was known as the “gem of the sun” and was believed to have protective qualities against nightmares and dark forces. The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the volcanic island of Zabargad, which was a significant source of this gem until other sources were discovered later.
Delve into the world of elegance with this stunning peridot pendant! Mined in Arizona, a 0.73 carat pear-cut Peridot rests in 14k white gold, with a petite diamond accent bezeled on the top for a bit of shine! It comes on an 18" chain which makes it a wonderful gift that can be worn right away.
This pendant is perfectly unique and sleek! Crafted in 14k yellow gold, this knife-edge style pendant features a round Arizona Peridot gem, measuring 6mm, and weighing about .80 carats. It is accented with a petite diamond, weighing .05 carats. It's the perfect design for someone who loves the unexpected!
This necklace is the perfect way to add a glow to any outfit! Crafted in 14k white gold, the bright metal contrasts beautifully with the glowing gem. The center stone is a natural oval cut peridot, measuring about 6x8mm, and weighing 1.36 carats. Surrounding the vibrant green gem are .21 carats of diamonds, creating an elongated loop of sparkle.
Embrace your inner goddess with American Gem Collection piece #228, “Green Goddess.” Featuring an incredibly rare and breathtaking 7.60 carat Arizona Peridot, this piece is truly a showcase design. Crafted in radiant 14k yellow gold, a beautiful open teardrop shape cradles the center stone, sparkling with 1.19 carats of white diamonds. The pear cut peridot measures 16x11mm, a size and shape that are almost impossible to find. The timeless silhouette of this pendant allows the peridot to take center stage.
Unlike many other gemstones that form in sedimentary or metamorphic rocks, peridot is a product of volcanic activity. It forms under high pressure and temperature in the Earth’s mantle before being brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions. This volcanic origin not only contributes to its unique appearance but also its remarkable durability. Peridot’s formation process makes it a gem of both geological and historical intrigue.
These beautiful studs are 14k yellow gold that goes with any ear! The gold encapsulates a total of 1.15-carats local peridot of the perfect lime green. The diamond accent on top gives the green the extra shine they need to be perfect on the ear for any occasion!
These sleek earrings are perfect for a vibrant touch! Crafted in 14k white gold, these earrings feature cushion cut Arizona peridot gems, measuring 8x6mm and weighing about 3.10 carats in total. A sleek half bezel gives these earrings a streamlined look, while a post back makes them easy to wear!
These earrings are the perfect style to brighten up any outfit. Crafted in 14k yellow gold, they feature bezel-set peridot in a marquise cut at the top of the earrings, and have two peridot briolette beads dangling below. The stud style makes these earrings comfortable all day!
Peridot’s distinctive green color is its most defining feature, but it can range from a pale lime green to a deep olive green, depending on the iron content in the mineral. What’s fascinating is that peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color family—green. Its color is caused by iron in the crystal structure, and this can give each stone a unique hue, making each peridot gem one of a kind.
One of the most impressive peridots ever discovered is known as the “Peridot of the Night” or the “Reverend John’s Peridot.” This enormous gem weighs a staggering 310 carats and was found in the 19th century. It is currently housed in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History. This colossal gemstone demonstrates not only the beauty but also the incredible size that peridot can achieve, making it a remarkable specimen for collectors and enthusiasts.
We feature this special opportunity with a gorgeous 2.80 carat peridot in a custom gold ring! Made with trusty 14k yellow gold, this ring features an oval-shaped Arizona peridot. To make the gemstone pop, we use a 0.09-carat total diamond accent, just small enough not to overpower, but just big enough to shine like a star. The ring comes in a bezel set to not make this ring to keep is modern and secure.
Delicate design meets bold color with this ring! Crafted in shining 14k white gold, .12 carats of round brilliant cut white diamonds adorn the band of this ring, and circle the center peridot in a graceful halo. The Arizona peridot at the center measures 9x7mm and weighs 2.8 carats, for a stunning flash of vibrant green!
Unique and sparkly, this beautiful peridot ring adds the perfect pop of color to make your day a little brighter! Crafted in 14 karat yellow gold, this ring features a stunning 1 and3/4 carat checkerboard cut Arizona Peridot gemstone. A .18 carat diamond accent gives this ring an extra hint of sparkle!
Peridot, with its vibrant green brilliance and rich history, stands out as a truly remarkable gemstone. From its ancient Egyptian origins to its role in contemporary jewelry, peridot continues to captivate and inspire. Whether you are celebrating an August birthday or simply admiring its beauty, peridot’s unique characteristics and historical significance make it a gem worth cherishing. As you explore the world of gemstones, let the radiance of peridot remind you of nature's extraordinary craftsmanship and the timeless allure of one of August’s most cherished treasures!