August boasts a trio of captivating birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While all three offer unique beauty and symbolism, peridot stands out as the most widely recognized modern birthstone for this month. Valued for its vibrant green hue, intriguing history, and purported protective qualities, peridot has adorned royalty, been mistaken for emeralds, and even been found within meteorites. This article delves into the geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and cultural lore surrounding this fascinating gemstone.
History and Lore
The story of peridot stretches back millennia. Evidence suggests its use in ancient Egyptian jewelry as early as 2000 BC, sourced from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea – originally known as Topazios, a name that led to historical confusion with the gem topaz. The island, with its harsh conditions, earned ominous nicknames like “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (“snake island”), yet its peridot was highly prized. Some accounts even claim that Cleopatra favored peridot, referring to it as the “stone of the sun.”
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with protection and healing. Ancient cultures believed it warded off evil spirits and “terrors of the night.” In medieval Europe, the gem was used in priestly jewelry and adorned chalices and churches. The name “peridot” itself originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” The gem was also known as chrysolite, translating to “golden stone” from the Greek language.
More recently, peridot became associated with the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Its connection to August as a birthstone solidified in the 20th century, though sardonyx previously held the position in the United States.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate composed of magnesium and iron. Its distinctive green color is a direct result of the iron content within the crystal structure; the more iron present, the more intense the green. This gemstone forms under specific geological conditions, often found in hardened lava flows originating from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Remarkably, peridot has also been discovered within meteorites, offering a truly extraterrestrial origin for some specimens.
While the original source on the island of Zabargad has been largely exhausted, peridot is now sourced from various locations worldwide. Significant deposits are found in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. A unique location is Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the presence of eroded peridot crystals. The finest peridot specimens are still highly sought after and can be found in prestigious museum collections.
Gemological Properties
Peridot exhibits a relatively consistent chemical composition, being primarily magnesium iron silicate (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. However, variations in iron content influence the shade of green.
Here's a summary of its key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Yellowish-green to brownish-green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.653 - 1.683 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.48 |
Peridot typically occurs in small sizes, making larger, high-quality stones relatively rare and valuable. The gem’s color can vary from a yellowish-green to an olive green, with the most desirable stones exhibiting a brilliant, pure green hue without any noticeable brown or yellow tones. It is important to note that peridot can sometimes be confused with emerald, topaz, and other green gemstones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Ancient Egyptians associated it with the sun, believing it possessed protective powers. In more recent times, peridot is often linked to concepts of strength, vitality, and forgiveness. Some believe it encourages self-responsibility and helps individuals acknowledge and learn from their mistakes.
Modern metaphysical practitioners attribute various healing properties to peridot, suggesting it can promote optimism, enhance confidence, and stimulate the meridians of the body. It is also considered a stone that connects individuals to their guardians, fostering self-respect, willpower, and creativity. Some traditions associate peridot with awakening Kundalini energy and opening the heart to nurturing energy.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, is relatively durable but requires careful handling. It is susceptible to scratches from harder materials and can be damaged by harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. To maintain its brilliance, peridot should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or sunlight, as this may cause fading. It is best to store peridot jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Additional August Birthstones
While peridot is the most recognized modern August birthstone, it shares the honor with spinel and sardonyx. Sardonyx, a banded variety of chalcedony, was the original August birthstone, with a history dating back over 4,000 years. Spinel, once mistaken for ruby, gained recognition as an August birthstone in 2016, offering a vibrant alternative to the traditional choices. Other stones historically associated with August include ruby, carnelian, and alexandrite, each carrying its own unique symbolism and lore.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating green birthstone of August, boasts a rich history, intriguing geological origins, and a wealth of symbolic meaning. From its ancient roots in Egyptian royalty to its modern association with protection, healing, and self-discovery, peridot continues to enchant and inspire. Its unique formation, often within the Earth’s mantle or even arriving on meteorites, adds to its mystique. Whether admired for its beauty, cherished for its symbolism, or sought after for its purported metaphysical properties, peridot remains a gemstone of enduring appeal.