Peridot, a vibrant greenish-yellow gemstone, holds a unique place in the world of colored stones as one of the birthstones for August. Its history stretches back millennia, interwoven with tales of volcanic origins, celestial travel, and ancient beliefs in its protective powers. While spinel and sardonyx also share the designation of August birthstones, peridot remains the most widely recognized and celebrated. This article will delve into the fascinating world of peridot, exploring its geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring symbolism.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is one of frequent misidentification and enduring fascination. Throughout history, this gem has often been confused with other green stones, notably emerald and topaz. The Red Sea island of Topazios, from which the name “topaz” is derived, was, in fact, a significant source of peridot. Ancient Egyptians revered the stone, believing it to be a “gem of the sun,” brought to Earth from exploding stars. They mined it extensively, particularly at night, convinced that the gem absorbed the sun’s rays and released them in the darkness. Priests adorned themselves with peridot jewelry as early as the second century BCE, and it was incorporated into chalices and ecclesiastical decorations during the medieval period.
Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have largely consisted of peridot, a testament to the gem’s desirability and perceived value. The Romans, too, held peridot in high esteem, referring to it as the “evening emerald” due to its ability to sparkle even in low light. They believed it possessed a unique glow, and its olive-green hue was associated with prosperity and good fortune. Biblical references suggest peridot, then known as chrysolite, was used in the breastplate of Aaron, the brother of Moses, further cementing its historical importance.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, peridot was considered a powerful talisman, believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against “terrors of the night.” Ancient practices involved stringing the gem on donkey hair and tying it around the left arm for protection, while setting it in gold was thought to amplify its protective qualities. This belief in its protective powers persisted for centuries, highlighting the deep cultural significance attributed to the stone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is as remarkable as its history. The gem is a variety of the mineral olivine, composed primarily of magnesium and iron ((Mg,Fe)2 SiO4). It forms under extreme conditions, originating in the Earth’s mantle – the layer beneath the crust. This mantle material is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, often found within hardened lava flows. Uniquely, peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, earning it the nickname “space gem.” Pallasite meteorites, in particular, sometimes contain peridot crystals, though these are typically too small for use in jewelry.
While peridot can be found in various locations worldwide, certain sources are particularly renowned for their quality and yield. Egypt, specifically the island of Zabargad (ancient Topazios), holds the distinction of being the oldest recorded source, with mining activity dating back to at least 340–279 BCE. However, the island’s harsh conditions earned it ominous names like “Island of Death” and “Snake Island.” Today, significant peridot deposits are found in China, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States.
Vietnamese peridot is highly sought after by jewelers for its diverse shades of green, while Burmese peridot is prized for its large cuts and rich color. A unique source exists in Hawaii, where peridot sands shimmer a luminous green on Peridot Beach, a testament to the gem’s volcanic origins. The Egyptian peridot from Zabargad remains highly desirable, with fine specimens displayed in prestigious museums around the world.
Gemological Properties
Peridot’s distinctive color is its most defining characteristic. It typically exhibits a light green to yellowish-green hue, though stones with a more intense olive-green coloration are also found. The intensity of the color is directly related to the amount of iron present in the gem; a higher iron content generally results in a more vibrant and valuable stone.
Beyond color, several other gemological properties contribute to peridot’s unique identity. It possesses a glassy luster and a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but susceptible to scratching from harder materials. Its refractive index is approximately 1.653 to 1.683, contributing to its brilliance. Peridot is typically found in relatively small sizes, with larger, high-quality stones being particularly rare and valuable.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)2 SiO4 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Luster | Glassy |
| Refractive Index | 1.653 - 1.683 |
| Color | Yellow-Green |
Peridot is sometimes referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its capacity to sparkle under both natural and artificial light, distinguishing it from emerald, which has its own unique characteristics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. It is widely associated with good health, peace, harmony, and compassion, earning it the nickname “gem of compassion.” It is believed to promote restful sleep and calm anger, and some even suggest it can alleviate depression.
Peridot is also the traditional gemstone for celebrating a 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing prosperity and enduring love. In modern metaphysical beliefs, peridot is thought to attract abundance and good fortune, and to help individuals connect with their destiny. Egyptians believed the stone held the power of the sun, while Romans associated it with protection and prosperity.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is advisable to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when exposed to harsh chemicals. Cleaning peridot is relatively straightforward: warm, soapy water and a soft brush are generally sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. Regular cleaning will help maintain peridot’s brilliance and luster, ensuring its beauty endures for years to come.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a captivating gemstone with a rich history, unique geological origins, and enduring symbolic significance. From its ancient roots as a “gem of the sun” revered by Egyptians and Romans to its modern status as a beloved August birthstone, peridot continues to fascinate and inspire. Its vibrant green hue, coupled with its intriguing lore and metaphysical properties, makes it a truly special and cherished gem. Its association with good health, peace, and prosperity ensures its continued appeal for generations to come.