Birthstones · August
The August Birthstone: Peridot
The August birthstone is peridot — the lively yellow-green gem once called the 'evening emerald'. Here is what it means, what makes one peridot finer than another, and where to find antique peridot jewellery.
- Peridot is the birthstone for August and the gem of the 16th wedding anniversary.
- It is gem-quality olivine, with a distinctive lively yellowish-green colour.
- Value is led by colour, then clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight; a rich grass-green with no brown is most prized.
- Explore antique peridot and gemstone jewellery and antique rings at Mozeris.
What is the August birthstone?
The August birthstone is the peridot, the gem-quality form of the mineral olivine. Its colour is always green, ranging from a soft yellow-green to a rich, lively grass-green — unusual among gems for showing only a single hue.
Peridot is traditionally given for a 16th wedding anniversary. Its glowing green looked striking by candlelight, earning it the old name 'evening emerald'.
Meaning & history
Peridot has symbolised light, warmth and good fortune since antiquity, and was mined by the ancient Egyptians on the Red Sea island of Zabargad. It enjoyed a great revival in Edwardian jewellery, often combined with seed pearls and diamonds in delicate openwork.
Antique peridot pieces from this period are among the most charming and collectable.
What gives Peridot its value
Peridot is judged chiefly on colour: a rich, lively green with no brownish tinge sets fine stones apart, with clarity, cut and size following.
| Factor | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Colour | A rich grass-green with no brown is most prized; pale or yellowish stones are worth less. |
| Clarity | Eye-clean stones command more; visible inclusions reduce value. |
| Cut | A good cut maximises the lively green; antique cuts add character. |
| Carat (ct) | Fine larger stones are scarcer and rise in price per carat. |
| Era & workmanship | Edwardian peridot-and-pearl pieces carry strong collector appeal. |
The antique premium
With antique peridot jewellery the workmanship is often the draw. Fine Edwardian openwork with seed pearls and diamonds, in an original mount with intact hallmarks, can lift value well beyond the stone alone.
Explore Antique Peridot Jewellery
A curated collection of antique and vintage peridot rings, brooches and pendants.
Antique Peridot jewellery at Mozeris
Peridot suits delicate, characterful antique jewellery. Across our collection you will find it in:
- Antique rings — cluster and Edwardian designs.
- Brooches and earrings set with green peridot, pearls and diamonds.
- Necklaces and pendants — Edwardian openwork and later styles.
Browse the full antique gemstone jewellery collection to explore by stone.
Choosing & styling
Peridot's warm green glows against yellow gold and looks fresh combined with pearls and diamonds in platinum. A peridot cluster ring or an Edwardian pendant makes a charming, characterful piece.
For a period look, pair peridot with the delicacy of Edwardian design or explore antique gemstone jewellery more widely.
Frequently asked questions
The August birthstone is peridot, the gem-quality form of olivine, known for its lively yellowish-green colour.
Peridot symbolises light, warmth and good fortune, and was mined by the ancient Egyptians; its glow by candlelight earned it the name 'evening emerald'.
Colour matters most — a rich grass-green with no brown is finest — followed by clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight.
Yes. We offer antique and vintage peridot pieces across our antique gemstone jewellery and antique rings collections. Browse online and make an enquiry to view or purchase.
August's Evening Emerald
Discover antique and vintage peridot jewellery, chosen for colour, character and craftsmanship.