Peridot, with its captivating shades of green, holds a unique place among gemstones. Designated as the primary birthstone for August since 1912, this gem boasts a history stretching back millennia, interwoven with tales of ancient civilizations, volcanic origins, and even extraterrestrial encounters. Its vibrant color, ranging from olive to golden-green, has captivated royalty and commoners alike, symbolizing renewal, protection, and prosperity. This article delves into the fascinating world of peridot, exploring its geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring appeal.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is one of mistaken identity and enduring admiration. Throughout history, this gem was often confused with emeralds and golden topaz, a testament to its similar hues. The island of Topazios in the Red Sea, now known as Zabargad, was once believed to be the primary source of topaz, but in reality, yielded significant quantities of peridot. Ancient Egyptians prized this gem, referring to it as “the gem of the sun,” believing its radiant glow reflected the sun’s bright rays and warded off evil spirits.
Evidence suggests peridot was used in priestly jewelry as early as the second century BCE. In medieval Europe, the gem adorned chalices and churches, further cementing its importance. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have largely consisted of peridot, sourced from the Egyptian island of Zabargad. The island itself earned ominous nicknames like “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (“snake island”) due to the harsh conditions faced by miners. Despite the dangers, peridot from Zabargad remained highly sought after for centuries and continues to be prized by collectors today.
The name “peridot” itself is relatively recent, with the first recorded use dating back to the 13th century. It is believed to originate from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem,” or potentially from the French language. Historically, it was also commonly called chrysolite, derived from the Greek word for gold, reflecting its golden-green tones. For a long period, peridot was considered a more valuable gemstone than even diamonds. It is also associated with the 16th wedding anniversary, a tradition that continues to this day.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s origin story is truly remarkable. Unlike most gemstones found in the Earth’s crust, peridot is primarily formed in the Earth’s mantle, the layer beneath the crust. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, carried within the hardened lava. This unique formation process contributes to its relative rarity, as olivine, the mineral from which peridot is the gem-quality variety, weathers quickly.
Remarkably, peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, indicating its presence in outer space. Trace amounts have even been identified at meteorite crash sites, further solidifying its extraterrestrial connection. On Earth, significant deposits of peridot are found in various locations, including the United States (particularly Arizona), China, Pakistan, Myanmar, Vietnam, Norway, Australia, Egypt, Hawaii, and Tanzania.
Peridot Beach in Hawaii is a particularly noteworthy location, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the abundance of peridot crystals. The oldest recorded source of peridot is the Egyptian island of Zabargad, mined as early as 340–279 BCE. Today, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Vietnam are major sources of peridot used in jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. Its color is determined by the amount of iron present in its crystal structure, ranging from deep olive green to pale yellow-green. The most valuable peridot exhibits a rich, vivid green hue with strong color saturation, free of yellow or brown undertones. This deep green shade is often referred to as “fine peridot.”
Peridot’s hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable but susceptible to scratches and abrasions. This means it is best suited for protective settings, such as bezels, in jewelry. The gem typically exhibits good transparency, allowing light to pass through and create its characteristic brilliance.
Peridot’s refractive index and other optical properties contribute to its unique appearance. It is known for its ability to reflect flashes of light, even in relatively dark conditions, contributing to its association with the sun. The highest-quality peridot displays a strong, intense color and exceptional clarity.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Color | Olive to Yellow-Green |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent |
| Origin | Earth’s Mantle, Meteorites |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Ancient Egyptians associated it with the sun and believed it possessed protective powers, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.” This belief in its protective qualities continued through medieval times.
Peridot is often linked to renewal, growth, and prosperity. It is considered a stone of warmth and positive energy, promoting optimism and well-being. It is also associated with the zodiac signs of Leo and Virgo, as both fall within the month of August. The gem is often referred to as the “gem of the sun,” further reinforcing its connection to light, energy, and vitality. It is said to bring good luck and happiness to the wearer, regardless of whether it is their birthstone.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratches and abrasions, so it should be stored separately from harder gemstones. Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
To clean peridot, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the gem to remove any dirt or grime, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. 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 stands as a testament to the Earth’s powerful geological processes and the enduring human fascination with gemstones. From its origins in the Earth’s mantle and even in the depths of space, to its historical significance in ancient civilizations and its modern status as the August birthstone, peridot continues to captivate and inspire. Its vibrant green hue, coupled with its rich symbolism of renewal, protection, and prosperity, makes it a truly special and cherished gem. Whether admired for its beauty, its history, or its metaphysical properties, peridot remains a timeless treasure.