August Birthstone Charm · Peridot in 14K Yellow Gold

This is a solid 14K yellow gold charm set with a 4mm round natural peridot, August’s birthstone, in a polished bezel. It is sold as a charm; the chain is not included.

The piece

• Metal: Solid 14K yellow gold, never plated or filled
• Stone: 4mm round natural peridot
• Setting: Bezel
• Size: About 14.5 x 4.8 mm
• Bail opening: 4.2 x 2.8 mm
• Chain: Not included
• Made: In the USA
• Returns: Eligible under our return policy (stock design, never engraved or sized)

The stone

Peridot is gem-quality olivine, formed deep in the earth’s mantle and carried up by volcanic activity; it has also been found in meteorites. Ancient Egyptians mined it on the Red Sea island of Zabargad. More in our gemologist’s guide to the twelve birthstones.

A gemologist’s note

Peridot is one of the few gems that comes in a single color family, because its green comes from iron in its own structure. It is softer than sapphire, which is why our gemologist recommends it as a charm: a pendant takes far fewer knocks than a ring.

Care

Peridot is 6.5 to 7 on the hardness scale and sensitive to acids. Clean with warm water and mild soap only, and store it apart from harder stones.