August Birthstone - Peridot

Peridot is the traditional birthstone for those who were born in the month of August. Peridot is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 16th year of marriage. The name Peridot comes from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. Peridot is also referred to as an "Evening Emerald" because under artificial light it glows as a brilliant green. Peridot is transparent with variety of green colour, ranging from light yellow - green to a dark olive. The purer green a peridot is, the higher the value. If there is any slight color of brown in your peridot it greatly lowers the value as well as any obvious flaws. Peridot was thought to help dreams become a reality as well as promise of new growth in the years ahead. The August birthstone makes an excellent gift as it symbolizes luck and success.