Peridot Guide

Ultimately, the most important aspect of choosing peridot jewelry is to pick a piece you love. At the end of the day, you should choose your favorite type of jewelry with your preferred metal, and whatever embellishments or accent stones you think would look fabulous on your personage.

Cleopatra was the first to popularize peridot gemstones back in Ancient Egyptian times, with many of her jewels featuring this “Gem of the Sun.” It is believed that peridot was the favorite gemstone of Edward VII of England, with many vintage Edwardian jewels from 1901-1910 featuring this green gem. Peridot’s popularity continued through the 20th century and it has maintained its standing as a gemstone of choice today. 

 In modern popular culture, peridots can be found everywhere. They're a gem of choice for modern-day royalty and pop culture celebrities. Peridot’s popularity has even spilled over into children’s shows, with a children’s cartoon featuring a character named after this vibrant gemstone. 

 

Peridot Gemstone Meaning

 

This gemstone’s ties to the sun, volcanoes and even celestial origins (some peridot gems have been found in meteorites!) bring unique energy and symbolism. Ancient Egyptians regarded peridot as “The Gem of the Sun” due to its persistently bright colors. It was believed that peridots could provide protection from evil. Today, peridot gemstones symbolize strength and good health. 

 As with all jewelry, you may have your own special meanings you attribute to peridots. Some people choose to wear this jewel for its August birthstone symbolism, or they wear it simply because they like the color. 

 

Matching Metals to Peridot 

We offer jewelry featuring the peridot gemstone in a variety of metals and styles. It is most often set in lighter metals such as white gold or silver but can also be found in yellow gold. Adding peridot stones to a white gold or silver setting will allow the gem to shine without contrasting colors. A yellow gold setting, on the other hand, will complement the tones of peridot and create color conversations between the setting and the gemstone. 

Famous Peridot Gemstones

 

The first recorded uses of peridot came from Egypt, though it was often mistaken for other gemstones like topaz and emerald throughout ancient and medieval times. Some historians suggest that Cleopatra's famous collection of emeralds may have actually been peridots. What were thought to be emeralds on The Shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne Cathedral turned out to be stunning deep green peridots as well. Today, it’s the gemstone that traditionally celebrates a 16th wedding anniversary. All gemstones have meanings for those in possession of them — peridot has been used for centuries to protect the wearer from evil spirits and night terrors.

If you’re looking for your very own “Gem of the Sun” or you’d like to purchase peridot jewelry as a gift, review our buying tips to make the most of your purchase. 

The best peridot is the one that offers your favorite features while keeping your budget in mind. Explore our wide selection of high-quality peridot jewelry to find the perfect piece.