All About Peridot

This just in, peridot is not just for August birthdays. With its lively green hue and distinctive glow, this gem brings a fresh energy to any jewellery collection. Whether you favour rich olive tones or crisp lime greens, peridot offers a surprisingly wearable pop of colour that looks as beautiful in high summer as it does in soft autumn light.

At Walter Bull & Son, we believe gemstones should tell stories. And peridot has more than a few to share.

What Is Peridot?

Peridot is a mineral whose vibrant green colour comes from the very composition of the stone itself, rather than from trace elements like many other gemstones. Most peridot forms deep within the Earth and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. In rare and remarkable cases, it has even arrived by way of meteorites, though these celestial stones are more likely to be found in a museum or laboratory than in a ring box.

The richness of peridot’s colour can vary depending on the amount of iron present in the stone. From pale golden green to deep olive, no two stones are exactly alike. This natural variation is part of what makes peridot so captivating.

How Do You Pronounce Peridot?

It’s a question that has sparked plenty of quiet debate, and the truth is both common pronunciations are technically correct. Some say pair-uh-dot while others say pair-uh-doh. The word itself comes from the old French term peritot, thought to mean unclear, likely a reference to the soft, milky look of uncut peridot in its natural state.

Peridot is also known by other names, including olivine and chrysolite. Whatever you choose to call it, the beauty remains the same.

The History of Peridot

This gemstone has a history that stretches back thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, peridot was believed to hold the power of the sun and was treasured for its vibrant glow. In fact, it is Egypt’s national gem. Some historians suggest that the famous emeralds of Cleopatra’s collection may have actually been peridots, misidentified due to their similar hue.

Centuries later, in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, the gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Kings were long believed to be emeralds. They are, in fact, peridots, mistaken for their greener cousins until studied more closely.

From pharaohs to medieval cathedrals, this gem has quietly held its place in the world of treasured stones.

The Meaning Behind Peridot

Known as the gem of the sun, peridot has always been associated with positivity and renewal. Its warm, radiant colour and natural brilliance give it a joyful presence. It is often thought to symbolise happiness, creativity and emotional clarity.

Linked to August, a month of late summer light and long golden evenings, peridot is believed to bring strength and harmony to its wearer. Whether chosen for its spiritual associations or simply for its unique beauty, this gem offers something quietly uplifting.

Peridot may be the birthstone of August, but its charm is timeless. Whether you are drawn to its history, its colour or its symbolism, this distinctive gemstone offers a fresh way to bring character and colour to your jewellery collection.

Explore our curated selection of peridot pieces and find the one that speaks to you.