For those born in August, a vibrant selection of gemstones offers a connection to the month’s energy. While spinel and sardonyx also claim the title, peridot stands out as the most widely recognized and historically significant August birthstone. This gem, celebrated for its distinctive green hues, boasts a rich history intertwined with ancient civilizations, mistaken identities, and a recent surge in accessibility. This article will delve into the geological origins, historical lore, gemological properties, and symbolism of peridot, providing a comprehensive overview of this captivating “sun gem.”
A History Shrouded in Misnomers
Peridot’s story is one of frequent misidentification. For centuries, it was often confused with other green gemstones, particularly emerald and topaz. Ancient Egyptians mined peridot from the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, but referred to it as “topaz,” a name that subsequently became associated with a different gem altogether. This confusion persisted for a considerable period, with historical texts often using “topaz” to describe what is now known to be peridot.
Indeed, some scholars believe that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have largely consisted of peridot sourced from Zabargad. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and naturalist, also contributed to the misnomer, referring to peridot as a type of topaz. The island of Topazios, now known as Zabargad, was believed to be the source of topaz, further cementing the confusion. It wasn’t until more recent gemological advancements that peridot was correctly identified and distinguished from its green counterparts.
While sardonyx and spinel have ancient roots as August birthstones, peridot’s association with the month is deeply ingrained in tradition, and its history as a prized gem stretches back millennia. The Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association formally recognized peridot as a primary August birthstone, solidifying its place in modern gemological tradition. Spinel, a more recent addition to the list in 2016, offers an alternative for those seeking a different hue.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem formed under extreme conditions, originating deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is a variety of the mineral olivine, composed of magnesium and iron ((Mg,Fe)2 SiO4). The presence of iron is responsible for peridot’s characteristic green color, with varying amounts resulting in shades ranging from yellowish-green to olive green and even brownish-green. The most desirable peridot stones exhibit a vibrant lime-green hue.
These gems are brought to the surface through volcanic activity, found within hardened lava flows. Uniquely, peridot has also been discovered in fallen meteorites, specifically Pallasite meteorites, though these are typically too small for use in jewelry. While meteorite-sourced peridot is a fascinating geological curiosity, the majority of gem-quality peridot is mined from terrestrial sources.
Historically, Zabargad in the Red Sea was a primary source of peridot. However, modern sources include the United States (particularly Arizona and New Mexico), Myanmar (Burma), Brazil, and Vietnam. The recent discoveries in the American Southwest have made peridot jewelry more accessible than ever before.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a unique set of gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and appeal. While not as hard as diamonds or sapphires, peridot exhibits a respectable hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for most jewelry applications.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)2 SiO4 |
| Color | Yellowish-green to Olive Green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Luster | Vitreous |
Peridot is known as the “evening emerald” due to its ability to sparkle brilliantly under both natural and artificial light. This characteristic distinguishes it from emerald, despite their similar green coloration. Peridot’s refractive index and dispersion contribute to its vibrant appearance, though it generally lacks the intense fire of a diamond.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient Egyptians believed peridot possessed protective powers, warding off evil spirits and bringing good health. They referred to it as the “gem of the sun,” recognizing its bright, radiant color.
In some cultures, peridot is associated with prosperity, good fortune, and marital happiness. It is believed to enhance creativity, boost confidence, and promote emotional balance. Some modern interpretations suggest peridot can aid in detoxification and strengthen the immune system, though these claims are not scientifically substantiated.
Biblical references to topaz may, in fact, refer to peridot, further enriching its historical and spiritual significance. The gem was included in the high priest’s breastplate, signifying its importance in ancient religious practices.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its moderate hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratches from harder materials, so it should be stored separately from diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Cleaning peridot is best achieved with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone to remove any dirt or grime, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will help maintain peridot’s brilliance and luster. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this may cause fading over time.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating green birthstone of August, boasts a history as rich and vibrant as its color. From its ancient origins in the Red Sea to its modern accessibility through discoveries in the American Southwest, peridot has captivated gem enthusiasts for millennia. Its unique geological formation, distinctive gemological properties, and enduring symbolism make it a truly special gemstone. While often mistaken for emerald or topaz in the past, peridot has rightfully earned its place as a treasured gem, representing sunshine, prosperity, and enduring beauty.