Peridot, a vibrant green gemstone, holds a special place as the birthstone for August. Recognized for its unique color and historical significance, peridot has been prized for centuries. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of peridot, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is rich with ancient appreciation. Ancient Romans, captivated by its consistent green hue – unlike other gems that shift in artificial light – affectionately named it “evening emerald.” This observation highlights an early understanding of peridot’s distinct optical properties. The gem’s use extends back through the ages, with evidence of its presence in early jewelry and adornments. Today, James Avery Artisan Jewelry features peridot in its birthstone collections, offering it as a symbol of August birthdays and special occasions. The company’s commitment to ethically sourced gemstones and skilled craftsmanship ensures the enduring quality and beauty of its peridot pieces.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is intrinsically linked to volcanic activity. It is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. This explains its association with certain geological environments. Sources indicate that peridot is found in the United States, specifically in Arizona and New Mexico. Beyond the U.S., significant deposits are located in Burma (Myanmar), Pakistan, and China. The availability of peridot from these diverse locations allows for a consistent supply for jewelry crafting. James Avery sources its gemstones from around the globe, ensuring a variety of options for its customers.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a unique set of gemological properties that define its character. Its defining characteristic is its color, which is consistently green, a feature that distinguished it to the Romans. It ranks between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, indicating moderate durability. This means it is suitable for jewelry, but requires careful handling to avoid scratches or damage. The chemical composition of peridot is not detailed in the provided sources. However, the sources emphasize that it is one of the few gemstones that exists only in green, setting it apart from other gems that exhibit a wider range of colors.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of peridot, as stated in the provided sources:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Color | Green |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Notable Feature | Consistent Green Hue |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is associated with a range of symbolic meanings. James Avery promotes peridot jewelry as ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. The bright green hue of the stone is considered visually striking and makes a “stunning statement” when paired with sterling silver or 14K gold. While the sources do not detail extensive metaphysical beliefs, the emphasis on its use for celebrations suggests a connection to positive emotions and cherished memories. The stone is presented as a way to represent love and commemorate significant life events.
James Avery and Peridot Jewelry
James Avery Artisan Jewelry has established peridot as its designated birthstone for August. The company offers a diverse collection of peridot jewelry, including rings, charms, pendants, and earrings. These pieces are crafted in a variety of styles, ranging from classic Spanish scroll motifs to more contemporary designs featuring twisted wire and intricate scrolling. The Avery Remembrance Ring, specifically featuring peridot, is presented as a meaningful gift for commemorating special moments. The company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and ethically sourced materials ensures that each piece of peridot jewelry is a lasting treasure. The peridot used in James Avery jewelry is typically faceted and approximately 3.5mm in diameter.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited information regarding the specific care and cleaning of peridot. However, based on its hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, it is advisable to protect it from scratches and impacts. While specific cleaning instructions are not provided, general gemstone care guidelines would apply: avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, direct sunlight, and extreme or prolonged heat. Quartzite, a related gemstone mentioned in the sources, specifically advises against these conditions, suggesting similar precautions for peridot.
Additional Gemstones Mentioned
While the focus of this article is peridot, the sources briefly mention other gemstones crafted by James Avery. These include pearls, prasiolite, and ruby. Prasiolite, a green to yellowish-green quartz, is created through heat treatment, though natural occurrences exist. Quartzite, a crystalline structure of quartz, is found in various colors and is often dyed or stabilized. Ruby, a well-known red gemstone, is also part of James Avery’s collection. These gemstones demonstrate the breadth of James Avery’s expertise in gemstone selection and jewelry design.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating green birthstone for August, boasts a rich history, unique geological origins, and enduring symbolism. From its ancient recognition by the Romans as the “evening emerald” to its modern-day celebration by James Avery Artisan Jewelry, peridot continues to be a cherished gemstone. Its consistent green hue, moderate durability, and association with special occasions make it a meaningful and beautiful choice for jewelry enthusiasts and gift-givers alike. The availability of peridot from diverse locations, coupled with the skilled craftsmanship of companies like James Avery, ensures that this vibrant gem will continue to sparkle and shine for generations to come.