Peridot—August’s birthstone and a green gem with a fiery origin and a rich history to match.
Known as the “gem of the sun” in Ancient Egypt, this stone was prized for its glowing, vibrant hue and believed to ward off evil spirits. Mined on the volcanic island of Topazios (now Zabargad), it was born deep in the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface through ancient volcanic activity.
But Egypt isn’t the only place where peridot had its moment in the sun. The Romans were obsessed with this gem, calling it the “evening emerald” because its vibrant green color didn’t dim, even in low light. They wore it as a protective talisman, believing it could keep them safe from evil forces.
And speaking of protection, medieval Europeans also treasured peridot, thinking it could fend off nightmares and dark spirits. Some of these peridots were even set into religious artifacts, like the Shrine of the Three Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral.
Peridot even has ties to Hawaiian mythology. Hawaiians believed the gemstone was formed from the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess—perfectly fitting for a gem born from lava.
If August is your birth month, you’re in good company with a stone that’s as bold and brilliant as summer itself. And even if it’s not, who can resist a gemstone with such an epic backstory? Our green crystal pens channel that same peridot energy, giving you a little piece of volcanic magic with every word you write. Time to let your ideas glow!
