Peridot - Birthstone for August

Peridot, (pronounced Pear-uh-doe), is a light green to olive coloured gemstone, sometimes called olivine.

Where does it come from?

Peridot is mined in many countries around the world; Egypt, China, Pakistan, Vietnam and the United States. There is a beach in Hawaii called Peridot Beach, where the sands shimmer a luminous green from the peridot deposits.

What’s it used for?

Called the ‘gem of the sun’, Peridot’s association with the sun meant that in ancient times it was used to ‘dissolve enchantments’ and ward off evil spirits. To get full protection from the stone the wearer should have the “stone pierced and stung on the hair of an ass and attached to the left arm”.

In modern times Peridot is still highly prized as a powerful healing stone.

It is reported to enhance healing and spiritual growth and is a highly recommended stone for healers and psychic counselors. As with most green gems, peridot is also said to strengthen eyesight. Metaphysical healers prescribe it for the heart, lungs, spleen and stomach ulcers. This stone is also used my midwives as a facilitator in childbirth.

Peridot is a soft stone and cannot take hard wear. If required, clean with mild soap in warm water and store separately from other jewellery.