Peridot is the birthstone for Leo Birthstone for August and for 16th Wedding Anniversary jewellery.

Wear a Peridot or for thee,
No conjugal fidelity,
The August born without this stone,
`Tis said, must live unloved alone


Peridot is derived from the Greek word “faridat” which is directly translated as “gem.” It is pale green in colour and is composed of chrysolite. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysolite

The science?

Its chemical composition is a crystalline structure of magnesium iron silicate and is orthorhombic. The depth of it’s green colouring is dependant on the amount of iron contained in the crystal structure.

Peridot is often referred to as “poor man’s emerald” !

Interestingly, the peridot is one of the few gemstones that only forms in one colour but, similarly, is graded by colour, cut, clarity and carat weight.

The Philosophy?

Peridot is associated with love, truth, faithfulness and loyalty, as well as fame, dignity and protection (So it has a lot to answer for!)
Many people use it to enhance prosperity, growth, and openness.
“Witchdoctors” during medieval times believed it to have many healing properties which aided the lungs, lymph, breast and sinuses.

If you want know more about Peridot, a really interesting site I found is http://www.gemstone.org/index.php?op...-gem&Itemid=14

Also there is some good info at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peridot

Just Curious: Has anyone ever worked with this gemstone? Would love anyone to dig out some piccies