Peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant green hue, holds a prominent place in both history and modern jewelry. As the birthstone for August, and associated with the zodiac sign of Leo, peridot is believed to symbolize strength, good fortune, and protection. Its journey through time, from ancient Egyptian mines to volcanic landscapes and even outer space, makes it a truly captivating gem. This article will delve into the origins, geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and care of this remarkable stone.
History and Lore
The story of peridot stretches back millennia, with some of the earliest documented use originating in ancient Egypt. As early as 1500 B.C., Egyptians mined peridot on the volcanic island of Zabargad, now known as St. John’s Island, in the Red Sea. They reverently called it the “gem of the sun,” recognizing its radiant glow and associating it with solar energy and power. Cleopatra herself was particularly fond of peridot, and some historians speculate that many of her famed emeralds were, in fact, peridot.
Ancient Egyptian priests believed peridot harnessed the power of nature, utilizing goblets encrusted with the gem during rituals to commune with their nature gods. The stone was also thought to ward off evil spirits and protect against “terrors of the night.” This protective quality continued to be attributed to peridot throughout the medieval period, where it was used as a talisman against negative energies.
Throughout history, peridot has occasionally been mistaken for other green gemstones, such as topaz and emerald. The island of Topazios, from which the name “topaz” is derived, was actually a source of peridot. Even in the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, gems initially believed to be emeralds were later identified as peridot.
Legends surrounding peridot extend beyond Egypt. In ancient times, people believed the gem arrived on Earth via a sun’s explosion, a notion not entirely unfounded given the discovery of peridot crystals within pallasite meteorites, some dating back 4.5 billion years. Hawaiian folklore also features peridot, with stories of the gems being tears of the goddess of elements, Pele, falling to earth with the rain near volcanic areas.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, formed deep within the Earth’s mantle. Volcanic activity brings these stones to the surface, often within hardened lava flows. The distinctive green color of peridot is a result of its iron content. Remarkably, peridot can also be found in meteorites, offering a unique extraterrestrial origin for some specimens.
Historically, Zabargad in the Red Sea was a primary source of peridot for centuries. Mining on the island began around 340–279 B.C., though the harsh conditions earned it ominous nicknames like “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (snake island). Today, significant deposits are found in several locations worldwide.
Myanmar (formerly Burma) is known for producing high-quality peridot with deep color and excellent transparency, found on the northern slope of Kyaukpon. The United States also boasts a notable source: a desert mesa on the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona. This location, estimated to produce thousands of carats annually, is worked primarily by Apache families who have mined the area for decades. Peridot Beach in Hawaii is another unique source, where small pieces of the gem wash ashore near volcanic areas, creating shimmering green sands. Other sources include China, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized by its yellowish-green to greenish-yellow color. Its chemical composition is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄, indicating it is a silicate mineral containing magnesium and iron. The gem typically has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than many other gemstones and less suitable for daily wear in rings.
The gem’s formation process often results in inclusions, such as “lily pad” inclusions and bits of natural glass containing gas bubbles. San Carlos peridot, in particular, is known for these unique inclusions, described as “smoke-like veils.” These inclusions can be studied under a microscope, offering a fascinating glimpse into the gem’s geological history.
Here's a summary of Peridot's key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Color | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.48 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. As the birthstone for August, it is believed to bring harmony in relationships, boost confidence, and promote restful sleep. It is also thought to clear the mind and open the heart, fostering positive thoughts and emotional well-being.
In astrology, peridot is associated with the zodiac sign of Leo, complementing the sign’s traits of strength, leadership, and vibrant energy. The stone is believed to enhance Leo’s charisma and self-esteem, helping them connect with their inner power.
Historically, peridot was considered a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and negative energies. In the early 1500s, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa suggested holding peridot to the sun could heal respiratory ailments, while apothecaries used powdered peridot as an antidote to insomnia, bleeding, madness, and nightmares. It was also believed to improve memory and ease labor and birth.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively lower hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. It is not recommended for daily wear in rings, as it is susceptible to scratches and damage. Long-term exposure to acidic perspiration should also be avoided.
Cleaning peridot should be done gently. Steam and ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended due to the risk of thermal shock. The safest method is to use a soft-bristle brush with mild dish soap in warm water. Peridot should be stored carefully, away from harder gemstones that could cause scratches.
Conclusion
Peridot, with its captivating green color and rich history, remains a treasured gemstone. From its ancient origins as the “gem of the sun” in Egypt to its modern status as the birthstone for August, peridot embodies renewal, strength, and protection. Whether sourced from volcanic landscapes, meteorites, or the sands of Hawaii, this gem continues to fascinate and inspire, offering a tangible connection to the Earth’s geological processes and the enduring power of ancient lore.