Peridot is the August Birthstone

Victorian Peridot Suie circa 1875 at Fourtane

For those celebrating a birthday in August, Peridot is the traditional birthstone.

"Tiffany & Co." Peridot and Diamond earrings at Fourtane

This vibrant green stone is a mineral called Olivine and is found in a range of greens varying from pale yellow to dark olive. Peridot is mined in Burma, Brazil, Australia, the Congo and Hawaii. Peridot is slowly formed within the earth's mantle where heat and pressure are abundant. Early natives discovered Peridot crystals in the black sands of Hawaii and explained their presence as tears shed by Pele, the fire goddess.

Peridot and Fancy Yellow Diamond Pendant at Fourtane

Peridot was a popular stone in Victorian jewelry during the reign of King Edward VII of England who proclaimed it his favorite gemstone. It has been discovered in ruins of ancient Egypt and Greece and was often referred to as the "Evening Emerald" because it's color seemed more vivid at lamplight making it resemble deep green emeralds.

Peridot bracelet signed Buccellati at Fourtane

"Wear a peridot or for thee,

No conjugal fidelity,

The August born without this stone,

Tis said, must live unloved alone."