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Peridot

Photo: Steve Jurvetson / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Peridot

Also known as: Gem olivine

Lime-green August birthstone born deep in Earth's mantle – and even found in meteorites.

  • ColourLime green, Olive green
  • Mineral groupOlivine (forsterite)
  • Chemistry(Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄
  • Hardness (Mohs)6.5–7
  • Crystal systemOrthorhombic
  • Where it's foundUSA (Arizona), Pakistan, Myanmar, China, Egypt (historic)
  • ChakraHeart, Solar Plexus
  • ZodiacLeo, Virgo, Scorpio, Sagittarius
  • BirthstoneAugust

What is Peridot?

Peridot is gem-quality olivine, coloured by iron. Unlike most gems, it forms deep in Earth's upper mantle and is carried to the surface by volcanic activity. It has also been found in meteorites (pallasites).

The ancient source was Zabargad (St John's Island) in the Red Sea off Egypt. Today much peridot comes from the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, Pakistan and Myanmar. Historians believe some of Cleopatra's famous "emeralds" may actually have been peridot. It is the birthstone for August.

Peridot astrology & birthstone

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Peridot meaning & traditional properties

Peridot is associated with abundance, renewal and positivity – the fresh green of new growth.

  • Abundance
  • Renewal
  • Positivity

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Peridot

  • Wear peridot as your August birthstone.
  • Keep a raw piece as a symbol of fresh starts.

How to care for Peridot

Avoid sudden temperature changes and acids. Clean with warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.

Looking for Peridot?

Peridot isn't in our shop right now – new stock arrives regularly. In the meantime, explore similar crystals we have available or browse our full crystal collection.

  • Emerald
    In our shop

    Emerald

    The legendary green beryl and May birthstone, treasured from Cleopatra's Egypt to Colombia.

  • Prehnite
    In our shop

    Prehnite

    Soft green, glowing mineral – the first mineral ever named after a person – often dotted with black epidote.

  • Moss Agate
    In our shop

    Moss Agate

    Clear chalcedony with green moss-like inclusions – the traditional 'gardener's stone' of growth and abundance.

  • Citrine
    In our shop

    Citrine

    Golden quartz and November birthstone – the crystal lore 'merchant's stone' of abundance and optimism.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Peridot with a abundance & success ritual

A new-moon or Monday-morning ritual for goals, business and prosperity.

Traditionally paired with: Cinnamon, orange or patchouli incense · A green or gold candle · Palo santo to start fresh

  • Clear your desk or workspace with palo santo.
  • Light a green or gold candle and cinnamon, orange or patchouli incense.
  • Write your goal on paper and place your crystal on top of it.
  • Keep the crystal on your desk, near your till or in your wallet as a reminder.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Peridot jewellery & pendulums

Wear the energy of your favourite crystals every day – browse our handmade crystal jewellery and dowsing pendulums.

Peridot FAQs

What month is peridot?

August.

Is peridot found in space?

Yes, olivine crystals occur in some meteorites.

Related crystals

  • Emerald
    In our shop

    Emerald

    The legendary green beryl and May birthstone, treasured from Cleopatra's Egypt to Colombia.

  • Prehnite
    In our shop

    Prehnite

    Soft green, glowing mineral – the first mineral ever named after a person – often dotted with black epidote.

  • Moss Agate
    In our shop

    Moss Agate

    Clear chalcedony with green moss-like inclusions – the traditional 'gardener's stone' of growth and abundance.

  • Citrine
    In our shop

    Citrine

    Golden quartz and November birthstone – the crystal lore 'merchant's stone' of abundance and optimism.

Sources