Peridot: The August Birthstone

August Birthstone Claddagh Ring

When two elements with fascinating histories come together, they make for one fabulous birthday gift. A peridot Claddagh ring brings together the calming presence of peridot with the love, friendship and fidelity symbolized by the Irish Claddagh.

Of course, an August birthday isn't the only occasion for celebrating with a peridot Claddagh ring. If someone you know is into Celtic jewelry and favors the color green, for example, she will appreciate the romance and beauty of a breathtaking Celtic peridot ring no matter what the gift-giving occasion may be.

Where Does Peridot Come From?

Peridot enjoys a rich history that spans over 4,000 years. Legend has it that the August birthstone was first discovered in Ancient Egypt on a volcanic island called Topazios (now known as St. John's Island or Zabargad) situated in the Red Sea. Christening it the "Gem of the Sun," peridot was so beloved by the Egyptians, they kept the island's precise location a secret. The island was said to have been infested with snakes, hampering mining efforts until a pharaoh drove the reptiles into the sea.

When the Egyptian empire collapsed, the island was lost to antiquity and wasn't rediscovered until 1906. Since then, Zabargad's deposits of peridot have been depleted.

Modern locations that make up the largest sources of peridot include the Himalayas, Myanmar, Pakistan and the United States.

Peridot Legend & Lore

The peridot gemstone, treasured for thousands of years, enjoys its share of folklore. When you consider peridot's romantic past, as well as the legend of the Claddagh, it's easy to see why birthstone Claddagh rings are truly thoughtful and sentimental birthday gifts.

Here are a few tidbits about peridot you may not have known:

• Ancient Romans gave peridot one of its nicknames, the "Evening Emerald," because it retained its color, even when viewed by candlelight.
• Hawaii is home to trace amounts of peridot, where small grains can be found mixed in with the sand. Far too small to cut, the tiny peridots have been said to symbolize Pele's tears. Pele is the Hawaiian goddess of fire.
• In the Middle Ages, fine peridot gemstones decorated European cathedrals.
• Peridot is said to possess healing properties and the ability to ward off fears and protect against bad dreams.
• To cast off evil spirits, some ancient people would string peridot on donkey hair then tie it on their left arm.
• Contrary to ancient legend, some historians think the famous emerald collection of Cleopatra may instead have been peridot. It's no wonder August birthstone wedding rings are so romantic!
• Another case of mistaken identity belongs to the 200-carat gems that adorn the shrine of the Three Holy Kings. Peridots — not emeralds — decorate Germany's Cologne Cathedral.

Our Claddagh Birthstone Rings for August

Whether you want a genuine peridot gemstone ring or are just as happy with a birthstone Claddagh ring that features a simulated peridot, CladdaghRing.com can help you find the perfect August birthstone ring.

Our selection of Claddagh birthstone jewelry features all the classic elements of heart, hands and crown. With settings of 14K gold or sterling silver, birthstone rings like these are sure to make impressive keepsakes. Along with our gold and silver Claddagh ring/birthstone selection, you can create an ensemble by adding a Claddagh necklace with a birthstone. Don't forget the matching Claddagh birthstone earrings! You're certain to find the ideal birthday gift.

Caring for Your Peridot Claddagh Ring

A relatively soft gemstone, peridot should be handled with care. Remove your ring, for example, if you're doing any rough work that might impact the gemstone.

To clean your peridot birthstone Claddagh ring, soak it in a solution of warm water and gentle dish soap. You can use a soft toothbrush to clean the setting and remove any grime.