August Birthstone -Peridot - Birthstones for August born or Leo

Peridot sometimes referred to as the “evening emeralds” for it appears greener when observe under artificial light. It is not so clear
from where Peridot derived its name. Evidences on its origin reflect two possibilities. First it might be the Arabic word “faridat”-
meaning gem. Secondly, the French word “peritot”- meaning unclear could be the original source from which it owed its name.
However, the French were the one, who first identify this yellowish-green birthstone as peridot.

Birthstone for the month of August is the gorgeous green Peridot that symbolizes luck and success. Since long Peridot has been
considered as the symbol of the sun and is believed to bring great dignity to the wearer. It is also designated as the gift for the 16 th
wedding anniversary. According to the myth, peridot if set in gold, can keep the wearer out of all evil charms and dangers of the dark
world. Peridot is also thought to have many curative powers. It is considered as a tonic for the whole body, and associated with stress
reduction and relaxation. For the Egyptians peridot cleans and heals the heart. The gem is also used to cure asthmatic problems. A
peridot when placed under the tongue of someone in the grip of a fever is said to lessen his or her thirst. While legend has it that
drinking from a peridot goblet can increase the potency of medicines.

The alternate August birthstone is Sardonyx, said to bring good
fortunes and guard the wearer from evil powers. The Romans wore
peridot engraved with heros such as Hercules or Mars, god of war and
believed that the stone would make the wearer as brave and daring as
the figured carved on it.

From light- transparent yellow-green to the intense bright green of new
spring grass to olive, peridot comes in a range of colors. Moreover, the
beautiful velvety appearance, the rich glow, and slight greasy luster of
the gem is due to the way it splits and bends the rays of light passing
through it. The purer green peridots are of greater values and were
highly prized, while those come with tinges of brown or visible flaws
have lesser values. However, the best-colored peridot has an iron
percentage of less than 15% and includes nickel and chromium as
trace elements.

Sardonyx derived its name from the Greek word “Sard” meaning reddish brown, and “onyx” meaning veined gem. It belongs to the
family of silica mineral and comes with a range of colors including white and gray. Best quality Sardonyxare found in India.

Peridot is found in various part of the world including Myanmar,
Pakistan, Brazil, Germany, Mexic and Australia. Arizona is the largest
source of peridot, while those found in Myanmar, Pakistan and Egypt
is rarer and finer quality. However, the source to the best quality
peridot had been Mayanmar or Egypt.