Called “the gem of the Sun” by the ancient Egyptians, peridot forms deep in the earth and is brought to the surface by volcanoes. It is believed that Napoleon gave Josephine a peridot as a symbol of his love for her.

People in medieval times continued to confuse peridot with emerald. Some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection might actually have been peridot.  For centuries, people believed the fabulous 200-ct. gems adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were emeralds. They are, in fact, peridots.

Known as the stone of compassion, peridot is believed to bring good health and peace to relationships by balancing the emotions and mind. This bright green stone inspires creativity and eloquence, while bringing delight and good cheer to the wearer.  It is used to help dreams become reality and attract love.

Peridot is the birthstone for August.