Peridot is August's birthstone — a vivid green gem that pairs beautifully with 925 sterling silver and suits everything from everyday studs to statement rings. This guide covers what makes peridot good for jewellery, the main styles, how to pick the right piece, how to style it, and how to care for it.
Peridot is the gem-quality form of olivine, a mineral formed deep within the Earth. Unlike most gems, its green colour is intrinsic to its composition rather than caused by impurities, so it ranges from lime to olive green, sometimes with a warm yellowish tint. Major sources include Egypt (Zabargad/St John's Island), Myanmar, Pakistan and Arizona in the USA. For the full gemology, see our peridot stone guide or the August birthstone guide.
As August's birthstone, peridot has long been associated with warmth, renewal and good cheer, and it is traditionally given to celebrate new beginnings and milestones. It is also the traditional gem for a 16th wedding anniversary. These associations come from folklore and tradition rather than any claim about the stone's effects. Peridot is also the gem most linked to the zodiac sign Leo.
Peridot's bright, slightly yellowish green has high brilliance and is usually eye-clean, with few visible inclusions. It is commonly cut as oval, cushion, pear, round and emerald shapes. At 6.5–7 on the Mohs hardness scale it suits everyday jewellery worn with a little care, and works across rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. At Irosk, every peridot is set in 925 sterling silver.
Browse everything in the peridot jewellery collection.
Peridot's warm green sits cleanly against the cool tone of 925 sterling silver, giving a fresh, modern contrast that lets the colour stand out. For pairing with outfits:
Peridot is the gem most associated with Leo, the sun-ruled fire sign that covers most of August — its bright green is seen as a natural match for Leo's bold character. Late-August birthdays fall under Virgo, which is more traditionally linked to sapphire, though many Virgos enjoy peridot as the month's birthstone. Read more in our Leo birthstone guide and zodiac August birthstone guide.
Peridot is a thoughtful choice for August birthdays, 16th anniversaries, and milestones such as graduations. A pendant necklace or pair of studs makes an easy, elegant gift; a statement ring marks a bigger occasion. For more ideas, see our peridot gift guide for August birthdays.
For the full routine, read our tips to care for peridot jewellery.
