August Birthstone Rings

August's birthstone is peridot. Celebrities that enjoy peridot as their birthstone include Tony Bennett, Dustin Hoffman, and Whitney Houston. The peridot is often confused with the emerald, because they are both green. However, the peridot is actually not as brilliant, kelley green as an emerald. It usually has a more olive hue with a tint of yellow and is more transparent. In fact, it is well known that Cleopatra's favorite jewelry was made of emeralds. However, now it is believed by some that the gems she thought were emeralds were actually peridots.

Peridot represents marriage and happiness. It is thought that the peridot can ward off nightmares, night terrors, and evil and ensure good luck, peace, and success. This gem is the bi-product of volcanic action. It is made of Magnesium and Iron Silicate, and it is a member of the Chrysolite mineral family.

You can find peridot birthstone rings in all sizes and cuts. It is a durable gem that can be placed in any setting . gold, silver, or platinum. Peridot can be found in the United States, Pakistan, Mexico, and Egypt. Large quantities are found in Arizona, but higher quality, larger stones are actually found in Egypt and Pakistan.

The French first started calling this gem peridot in the early 1800's. Before that, it was known as topaz. There are early myths that peridot was easier to find by moonlight or couldn't be seen during the day at all. Of course, now we know that a beautiful peridot birthstone ring is just as beautiful during the day as it is at night.

Birthstone rings can be used for many ocassion besides birthdays such as a birthstone engagement ring, a birthstone promise ring and a birthstone anniversary ring. For whatever event you choose, know that it is a special ring and telling the person about the rings' qualities will be a nice extra personal touch.