Peridot, a gem variety of olivine, holds the distinction of being one of the August birthstones, alongside spinel and sardonyx. Its history is rich and spans millennia, with sources dating back to ancient Egypt and even potentially originating from outer space. Throughout history, peridot has been valued for its distinctive yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hue, often mistaken for emerald or topaz, and has been associated with protective qualities and good fortune. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of this captivating gemstone.
History and Lore
The name “peridot” originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” Its use dates back as far as the second century BCE, appearing in jewelry worn by priests. Medieval Europe also prized the stone, incorporating it into chalices and church decorations. The gem’s historical journey is marked by instances of misidentification; the Red Sea island of Topazios, believed to be a source of topaz, actually yielded significant quantities of peridot.
Ancient beliefs surrounding peridot were numerous. It was considered a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.” Some ancient cultures believed that placing peridot in water would turn the sun red. In more recent history, peridot has become the traditional gem given to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary. Cleopatra herself was rumored to have favored peridot, though some accounts suggest her “emeralds” were, in fact, this August birthstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is unique, occurring under extreme conditions. It is often found in hardened lava, carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Remarkably, peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin for some specimens.
Historically, the Egyptian island of Zabargad, known by ominous names like Island of Death and Ophiodes due to its harsh conditions, was a significant source of peridot, with mining potentially beginning around 340–279 BCE. Peridot from Zabargad remains highly prized and can be found in prestigious museums worldwide.
Today, major sources of peridot include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. A particularly unique location is Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the presence of this gemstone. Spinel from Myanmar is known for producing arresting colors, like hot pink and red.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine. The name “spinel” comes from the Latin word spina, meaning thorn, referencing the shape of its crystals. Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including intense red, vibrant pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. For centuries, spinel was often mistaken for other gemstones, most notably ruby. The approximately 170-carat Black Prince’s “ruby,” a historically significant gem, was later identified as a red spinel. It is currently set in Great Britain’s Imperial State Crown, above the Cullinan II diamond.
The chemical differences between spinel and ruby were not clearly established until the 18th century. Red spinel, along with other red gems, was historically believed to be a remedy for blood loss and inflammatory diseases, and to promote harmony and ease anger. It is traditionally given as a gift for a 22nd wedding anniversary.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. While specific beliefs vary across cultures, certain themes consistently emerge. Red spinel was thought to ease anger and promote harmony, while bloodstone was believed to increase strength, grant invisibility, and preserve health and youth. In modern times, bloodstone is often considered a lucky charm, particularly favored by athletes seeking to enhance their physical prowess. In India, fine bloodstone has even been ground into a powder and used as an aphrodisiac.
Care and Cleaning
While the provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for peridot or spinel, general gemstone care principles apply. Spinel, being a durable gemstone, can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Conclusion
Peridot and spinel represent a fascinating intersection of geological wonder, historical significance, and cultural lore. From its potential extraterrestrial origins to its misidentification as other gemstones, peridot’s journey through time is captivating. Spinel’s history is equally compelling, having been mistaken for ruby for centuries and now recognized as a beautiful gemstone in its own right. As August birthstones, these gems offer a unique connection to the past and a symbol of enduring beauty.