August is my favorite month because it evokes so much emotion—we know summer is coming to an end, yet there is still time to enjoy it. And soon enough, the excitement of fall will arrive in New Jersey! Peridot reminds me of all of this, making it the perfect birthstone for August.
Peridot ranges in color from light yellowish green to deep brownish green. It is an abundant gemstone and proudly made in the USA, with most peridot mined in Arizona. The brightest lime and olive green shades are considered the most prized.
Since ancient times, peridot has been believed to possess healing powers and offer protection against nightmares. It is also the traditional gemstone gifted for a 16th wedding anniversary.
In Hawaii, peridot is known as a volcanic gem, formed in the deep fires of the earth and treasured as the tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes. One entire beach in Oahu is composed of peridot sand, worn to powder by the ceaseless ocean.
Pele’s gift of peridot is thought by many to not only heal but also bring wealth and growth. As the days grow shorter and summer begins to fade, notice how peridot continues to sparkle just as brilliantly at night as it does in the sun.