Peridot, also called Chrysolite and Olivine, is the birthstone for August babies. It can range in color from yellow-green, to green-yellow, olive green, and some brownish in color which are not optimal. Peridot of the nicer varieties are found in Arizona in the USA, China, Burma and Pakistan. Peridot has been found with a cats eye effect, and star asterism. It is extremely rare, in those varieties, and I have never seen any either in a book, or in person. It is a doubly refractive gemstone, and some have a lily pad inclusion. It has a Mohs hardness of 6 1/2-7 and can be very brittle. Care must be taken when setting Peridot, due to its brittleness, and when wearing to avoid knicking and chipping the stone. Alot of Peridot, sold in the stores is not the lovelier quality, therefore many August babies do not like their gemstone. However, there is gem quality Peridot available, and it is quite lovely. If you look at my pictures posted, you will see what I mean. Peridot is said to be running out, and is making the stone more rare and thereby more valuable. Get your Peridot, before it runs out. I personally prefer sterling silver, but Peridot is quite lovely when set in yellow gold.
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