August, the last of the relaxing summer nights, jumps in the pool, and  feet in the sand. As we are nearing the end of summer, we have to get our final moments of sun and freedom in before the school year starts again. The leaves haven’t changed yet, and are green as can be just like this months’ birthstone, peridot. The lime green color is perfect to add to any outfit, bringing a bright glow to the dog days of summer.

Why do we call it the dog days?

Contrary to popular belief, the dog days are NOT about dogs laying around being exhaustingly hot, panting for water. Instead, the phrase refers to the dog star, Sirius, and its position in the sky. To the Greeks and Romans, the dog days refer to the hottest time of year, when the Sirius star appeared to rise just before the sun. So although the dog days reference is about extremely hot summer days, it is not about actual dogs. Next time you’re up before the sun rises, see if you can find that star shining back at you.

AUGUST BIRTHSTONE:

PERIDOT

Peridot is symbolic of happiness, loyalty, and friendship. It’s no wonder why peridot is our final birthstone of summer; you can’t help but smile when you look at it! Peridot is a semi-precious stone which is recognized by its olive-green bright color and is a French word that is derived from the Arabic word “faridat” meaning gem. The energies from this gemstone can also suppress ego and jealousy. According to traditional beliefs, peridot could ward off evil spirits and that’s why it aided in making marriages and relationships successful.

Fun Facts:

 -In ancient times, Egypt was the primary source of the peridot, called the ‘Gem of the Sun’.

-Interestingly, the gemstones worn by Queen Cleopatra was not emeralds as it was popularly believed, but actually the peridot.

-References to the peridot have been found in the Christian bible by its Hebrew name ‘Pitdah’.

-The peridot is one of only a few gemstones that exists in only one color. While all peridots are green, it is found in different shades spanning from pale green, olive-green to even bright lime.