Peridot: Gem of the Sun and Ancient Lore

For those born in August, the vibrant green of peridot serves as a captivating birthstone, steeped in history and possessing a unique geological origin. Alongside spinel and sardonyx, peridot holds a special place as a traditional gem associated with this summer month. Valued for centuries, and sometimes mistaken for emerald, peridot’s allure stems from its distinctive color, its fascinating journey to Earth—even from outer space—and the enduring beliefs surrounding its protective and prosperous qualities. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone.

History and Lore

Peridot’s story stretches back millennia. As early as 1500 BCE, ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, reverently calling it the “gem of the sun” due to its ability to capture and reflect light. The island itself, however, was a treacherous place, earning ominous names like the Island of Death and Ophiodes (“snake island”), yet the allure of the gem persisted. Sources indicate mining continued on Zabargad around 340–279 BCE.

Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other green gemstones, notably emerald. The word “peridot” itself originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem,” highlighting its long-held status as a precious stone. In the second century BCE, peridot adorned the jewelry of priests. Later, during the medieval period in Europe, it was incorporated into the chalices and ornamentation of churches. A notable example is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, which features 200 carats of gems long believed to be emeralds, but are, in fact, peridot.

Cleopatra herself may have favored peridot, with some historians speculating that her famed emerald collection largely consisted of this vibrant green gem. Ancient Romans referred to peridot as the “evening emerald” because its bright green color remained visible even at night. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, peridot was considered a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.” It is also the traditional gemstone given to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary.

Geological Formation and Sources

Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, and its formation is quite remarkable. Unlike many gemstones formed through typical geological processes, peridot can be found in hardened lava, carried from deep within Earth’s mantle. Even more extraordinarily, peridot has been discovered within pallasite meteorites, some estimated to be between 4 and 5 billion years old, dating back to the origins of our solar system. In 2005, peridot was even found in comet dust retrieved by the Stardust robotic space probe, confirming its extraterrestrial origins.

While some peridot arrives on Earth via meteorites, significant deposits are also found in more conventional geological settings. Today, much of the peridot used in jewelry originates from sources such as China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. The Egyptian island of Zabargad remains a historically important source, and specimens from this location are still highly prized by collectors and can be found in prestigious museums. Peridot Beach in Hawaii is another unique location, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the presence of peridot grains.

Gemological Properties

Peridot’s distinctive olive-green color is its most defining characteristic. The color ranges from fresh lime to deep olive, always with golden undertones. Notably, peridot is not as light-dependent as some other colored gemstones; it maintains its color consistently in various lighting conditions—a relatively rare quality.

Gemologically, peridot exhibits extremely high double refraction. When viewed closely through the gemstone, two of each pavilion facet can be observed. This optical property contributes to its unique brilliance and visual appeal.

Here's a summary of key gemological properties:

Peridot typically occurs in small sizes, making larger, high-quality stones relatively rare and valuable.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Throughout history, peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient Egyptians believed it possessed protective powers, shielding the wearer from evil. Romans considered it a symbol of prosperity and growth. Modern beliefs attribute peridot with the ability to strengthen life, increase openness, and promote overall well-being. It is thought to bring clarity to the mind and alleviate stress.

The association with courage and happiness is also present in the lore surrounding peridot, linking it to positive energy and emotional balance. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the gemstone’s enduring appeal and its perceived value beyond its aesthetic qualities.

Care and Cleaning

Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, requires careful handling to prevent scratches and damage. While relatively durable, it is softer than many other gemstones commonly used in jewelry. When wearing peridot, especially in rings, it’s advisable to avoid impacts and abrasive materials.

Cleaning peridot is best achieved with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution, as they may pose a risk to the stone, particularly if it contains fractures. Avoid exposing peridot to high heat, as this could potentially affect its color. As with any gemstone, it is recommended to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when using harsh chemicals.

Styling Peridot Jewelry

Peridot’s fresh green hue complements a variety of metal settings. Yellow gold enhances its warm, sunny tones, creating a rich and vibrant look. White metals, such as platinum, provide a crisp, modern contrast, allowing the peridot’s color to truly pop. Peridot is versatile enough for both everyday wear and statement pieces, appearing beautifully in solitaire rings, halo earrings, and pendant necklaces.

Spinel: A Rising Star

While peridot is the most recognized August birthstone, spinel deserves recognition. For centuries, red spinel was often mistaken for ruby, and blue spinel for sapphire, even appearing in royal crowns and treasures. Today, spinel is finally gaining recognition for its own unique beauty, available in a rainbow of colors including fiery red, vivid pink, purple, and electric blue. Spinel is typically durable, registering an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for all types of jewelry. It is stable when exposed to light and chemicals, though high heat can cause some colors to fade.

Sardonyx: The Ancient Birthstone

Sardonyx, a combination of chalcedony varieties sard and onyx, is the most ancient of the August birthstones, with a history dating back over 4,000 years. It features bands of brownish-red to dark orange sard alternating with white or black layers of onyx. Ancient Romans used sardonyx for seals and signet rings, as hot wax wouldn’t adhere to it. It was also believed to represent the strength of spiritual life and was worn by Roman soldiers for protection in battle. Today, it is associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication. Sardonyx is 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and, like peridot, should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush.

Conclusion

Peridot, with its captivating green hue and fascinating origins, remains a cherished gemstone for those born in August. From its ancient roots as the “gem of the sun” to its modern appeal in contemporary jewelry, peridot continues to symbolize prosperity, protection, and enduring beauty. Whether admired for its geological uniqueness, its historical significance, or its vibrant color, peridot is a gemstone that truly shines. Alongside spinel and sardonyx, it offers a diverse range of options for celebrating an August birthday with a touch of timeless elegance.

Sources

1. Leo Hamel
2. GIA
3. Vardys