August birthstone: peridot meaning and why it's the stone of positivity
Born in August? Your birthstone is peridot. It's known for positivity, clarity, and letting go of what doesn't serve you.
That bright lime-green colour isn't just eye-catching — it's been valued for thousands of years as a stone that brings light, joy, and fresh perspective.
At Haloom Handmade, we work with peridot because it's vibrant, uplifting, and carries real meaning — perfect for anyone who wants to feel lighter and more focused.
What peridot means
Peridot symbolises positivity, clarity, and renewal. It's often called the "stone of compassion" because it's believed to help you let go of grudges, release negativity, and see things more clearly.
Ancient Egyptians called peridot the "gem of the sun" and believed it protected against nightmares and evil spirits. Cleopatra's famous emerald collection? Historians now think a lot of those stones were actually peridot.
Today, peridot is still valued for its ability to bring a sense of lightness, optimism, and emotional balance.
Why peridot is called the stone of positivity
Peridot has a reputation for clearing out mental and emotional clutter. It's the kind of stone people turn to when they want to:
Let go of old resentment or negative patterns
See situations more clearly without getting stuck in drama
Feel lighter, happier, and more optimistic
Boost confidence and self-worth
It's not about toxic positivity or pretending everything's fine. It's about clearing the fog so you can actually see what's worth your energy and what's not.
Where peridot comes from
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that only comes in one colour — green. The shade can range from yellow-green to deep olive, depending on how much iron is in the stone.
Most peridot today comes from Arizona, China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. But some of the most interesting peridot doesn't even come from Earth — it's been found in meteorites that crashed here millions of years ago.
Peridot forms deep in the earth's mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. In Hawaii, peridot is considered a sacred stone, believed to be the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess.
Things you probably didn't know about peridot
Peridot is one of the oldest known gemstones, with records of it being mined as early as 1500 BC.
The ancient island of Topazios (now Zabargad) in the Red Sea was the main source of peridot for over 3,500 years.
Peridot glows under artificial light, which is why it's sometimes called the "evening emerald."
Some cultures believed wearing peridot would make you more eloquent and persuasive in speech.
Peridot has been found in pallasite meteorites — some of the rarest and most beautiful space rocks on Earth.
Whether it came from a volcano or outer space, peridot's been around long enough to earn its reputation.
Peridot and the heart chakra
Peridot is connected to the heart chakra, which is all about love, compassion, emotional balance, and letting go of what weighs you down.
People often choose peridot when they want:
To release old hurt or resentment
More compassion for themselves and others
Emotional clarity and a fresh perspective
To feel lighter and more joyful
It's a gentle stone, but it doesn't mess around. If something's not serving you, peridot helps you see it clearly so you can move on.
Why peridot makes a thoughtful August gift
If you're shopping for someone born in August, peridot jewellery is a meaningful choice. It's bright, it's different, and it carries symbolism around positivity, clarity, and emotional freedom — things that actually help in real life.
It's also a great gift for anyone going through a transition, trying to let go of something, or just needing a reminder to lighten up a bit. Peridot doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's part of its charm.
At Haloom Handmade, our Calm Focus natural peridot bracelet, Lighter & Happier peridot bracelet, and peridot necklace for clarity are all designed for everyday wear. Bright, uplifting, and made to remind you to focus on what matters.
Common questions about peridot and August birthstones
Is peridot the only August birthstone?
Peridot is the traditional and most popular August birthstone. Spinel and sardonyx are also recognised as August birthstones, but peridot is the most widely known and available.
What's peridot good for?
Peridot is known for positivity, clarity, and letting go of negativity. It's often used to release resentment, boost confidence, and bring a sense of lightness and joy.
Can I wear peridot every day?
Yes, but peridot is softer than some gemstones, so it needs a bit of care. Avoid harsh chemicals and rough handling, and it'll stay beautiful for years.
Which chakra does peridot connect to?
Peridot is connected to the heart chakra, which is about love, compassion, emotional balance, and releasing what no longer serves you.
Why is peridot called the evening emerald?
Peridot glows beautifully under artificial light, which makes it look especially vibrant in the evening. That's why it earned the nickname "evening emerald."
What does peridot symbolise?
Peridot symbolises positivity, clarity, renewal, and compassion. It's been valued for thousands of years as a stone that brings light, joy, and emotional freedom.