Peridot jewelry
Handcrafted peridot necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, made to order in our Colorado studio. Set in sterling silver, 14K gold-fill, and solid 14K gold.
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About peridot
Peridot is a the gem-quality variety of olivine, a magnesium iron silicate mineral that forms deep in the Earth's mantle rated 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, Peridot rates 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. For context, a steel nail is roughly 6.5, sapphire is 9, and diamond is 10. At 6.5 to 7, peridot is durable enough for everyday wear in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Ring settings benefit from a bezel or protective mount. Avoid sudden temperature changes, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged contact with acids or harsh chemicals.. Its color ranges from yellowish-green to deep olive green, with the most prized stones showing a pure grass-green with no brown or yellow undertones, with the most prized stones showing even saturation and high clarity.
Peridot has been mined for over 3,500 years, with the earliest stones coming from Zabargad Island in the Red Sea. Ancient Egyptians called it the gem of the sun and believed it protected against nightmares. Some peridot has even arrived on Earth in pallasite meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones with an extraterrestrial origin. Today most peridot comes from Pakistan, Myanmar, China, Vietnam, and the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona.
Historically, peridot has been associated with renewal, prosperity, and protection. In crystal healing and metaphysical traditions, peridot is associated with the Heart and Solar Plexus Chakras. It is linked to confidence, openness to abundance, and release of old patterns. Practitioners often use it as a stone for fresh perspective and emotional warmth, themes that align with August's late-summer energy.
Peridot vs emerald
Same color family, different stones. Here's how to choose.
Peridot
Peridot and emerald are entirely different mineral families. Emerald is a beryl and rates 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale; peridot is an olivine and rates 6.5 to 7. Emerald's color comes from chromium and vanadium; peridot's comes from its core iron content, making it one of the few gemstones colored by an essential element of the mineral itself rather than a trace impurity.
Emerald
Emerald reads as a deeper, bluer green with visible inclusions and carries significantly higher price points; peridot reads brighter and more yellow-green at far more accessible pricing. If you are deciding between the two for green-gemstone jewelry, peridot offers a distinctive lime-green tone that is hard to find in any other stone.
Born in August?
Peridot is one of two modern birthstones for August August birthstones, alongside peridot and spinel are both modern birthstones for August. For people who follow birthstone jewelry traditions, peridot makes a vibrant gift for anyone born in August. Its lime-green tone is unlike any other green gemstone, the symbolism of renewal and abundance suits the late-summer season, and the stone is durable enough to wear every day.
See all August birthstones on the August birthstone jewelry hub.
Shop August birthstone jewelryShop more
Made to order in Colorado
Every peridot piece is handcrafted to order in our Steamboat Springs studio, shipped in about 10 business days, and arrives in eco-friendly gift packaging.
Frequently asked questions
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Is peridot the birthstone for August?
Yes. Peridot is the primary birthstone for August and has held that designation since the original 1912 birthstone list. August also recognizes sardonyx (traditional) and spinel (modern, added 2016). Peridot is also the traditional gemstone gift for a 16th wedding anniversary.
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Can you wear peridot jewelry every day?
Yes. Peridot scores 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for all types of jewelry with reasonable care. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and contact with acids or harsh chemicals. Bezel settings offer extra protection for rings.
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Is peridot natural or treated?
Peridot is almost always completely natural and untreated. Its green color comes entirely from iron within the crystal structure, not from any enhancement. This makes peridot one of the most transparent gemstones in terms of what you're actually buying. In rare cases, lower-quality stones may be treated with oil or resin, but this is uncommon.
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What is the difference between peridot and emerald?
Peridot and emerald are different minerals entirely. Peridot is olivine (Mohs 6.5 to 7) with a yellow-green to olive color. Emerald is beryl (Mohs 7.5 to 8) with a blue-green color. Peridot is almost always untreated; most emeralds are oiled or treated to improve clarity. Peridot is also significantly more affordable than emerald.
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Can peridot go in water?
Yes, brief water contact is safe for peridot. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid prolonged soaking, chlorinated pools, and salt water. Peridot is sensitive to acids (including some household cleaners and acid perspiration), so remove before cleaning or swimming.
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What does peridot symbolize?
Peridot symbolizes prosperity, good fortune, renewal, growth, and compassion. Ancient Egyptians called it the 'gem of the sun' and believed it had protective powers. It is connected to the Heart Chakra (love and compassion) and Solar Plexus Chakra (confidence and personal power). Peridot is associated with the zodiac signs Leo and Virgo.