August Birthstones: Where Peridot Fits and How to Choose It
At a glance
Peridot is one of three August birthstones, alongside spinel and sardonyx. Its yellow-green character offers one way to mark an August birthday, but a birthstone association is a starting point for choosing a gift—not a rule about what someone must wear.
August has more than one birthstone
GIA lists peridot, spinel and sardonyx for August. That means someone who does not enjoy green jewellery has other birthstone traditions to explore. There is no need to force the recipient’s taste into a single stone choice.
Peridot is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of olivine. If you are drawn to that colour, start by looking at designs the recipient would actually wear, then check the details of the individual item.
Make the connection personal
A short note can explain why you chose a birthstone piece: a birthday month, a shared memory or simply a colour the person loves. Avoid presenting traditional symbolism as a scientifically established effect. The personal meaning comes from the occasion and your message.
You can also choose peridot without an August birthday. Treat birthstones as a source of ideas rather than a restriction on who can enjoy a gemstone.
Choose the form before the finishing details
Decide whether the recipient would prefer a ring, pendant or earrings. For a ring, confirm the intended finger and size. For a pendant, establish whether a chain is included. For earrings, check the fastening and whether the listing is for a pair.
Then compare the metal options and measurements. If a listing lets you choose from several stones, read the selected gemstone option before checkout. Do not assume the stone shown in every photograph is the one currently selected.
Add a useful care note
GIA recommends warm soapy water for peridot and advises against steam and ultrasonic cleaners. It also cautions against impacts and rapid or uneven heat. Ask for instructions that account for the complete piece and pass those to the recipient.
Keep the order details and any supplied gemstone information with the gift records. A birthstone story can make the choice meaningful; clear product details help make it a practical purchase too.
Sources and further reading
Checked 8 November 2026. Birthstone and gemstone facts are sourced from GIA. Gift-selection suggestions are editorial guidance.