Peridot, with its captivating green hues, holds a prominent place among the gemstones recognized as birthstones for August. Historically often mistaken for emeralds and topazes, peridot boasts a unique geological origin and a rich history steeped in lore and symbolism. Alongside spinel and sardonyx, peridot offers a vibrant choice for those born in the eighth month, each gem presenting distinct qualities and aesthetic appeal. This article delves into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, and care of peridot, providing a comprehensive overview of this fascinating gemstone.
History and Lore
Peridot’s history stretches back millennia, with evidence suggesting its admiration dating back to ancient civilizations. The island of Topazios in the Red Sea was once believed to be the primary source of peridot, leading to its initial confusion with topaz. However, the island primarily yielded peridot, not topaz, giving rise to the misnomer. Throughout history, peridot has been prized for its vibrant color and brilliance.
Some historians speculate that the famed emerald collection of Cleopatra may have actually consisted largely of peridot. The gem was also highly valued in ancient Rome, where it was associated with the god Mars and worn by soldiers for protection in battle. References to peridot appear in the Old Testament, though its identification is not definitive.
The formal recognition of peridot as an August birthstone evolved over time. Initially, sardonyx held the sole designation. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers, now known as Jewelers of America, officially added peridot to the list of August birthstones. Further broadening the options, in 2016, spinel was introduced as a third gemstone for those born in August, aiming to increase appreciation for this often-overlooked gem.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is formed under extreme geological conditions, primarily originating from deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is found in hardened lava, carried to the surface during volcanic activity, and even in meteorites originating from outer space. This unique origin contributes to its distinctive composition and properties.
While peridot can be found in various locations globally, specific regions are known for producing high-quality specimens. India is a notable source, particularly for sardonyx with strong color banding, but also yields peridot. Other sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. The availability of larger, high-quality peridot stones is relatively rare, making those exceeding five carats particularly valuable.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula that is not explicitly stated in the provided sources. Its defining characteristic is its color, ranging from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow. This vibrant hue sets it apart in the gem world.
Peridot’s hardness falls between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than many other commonly used gemstones. This relative softness requires careful handling and consideration when worn in jewelry, particularly in rings.
The sources do not provide specific details regarding peridot’s refractive index, specific gravity, or other detailed gemological data. However, they emphasize its sparkle and unique color as key attributes.
Here's a table summarizing the key properties mentioned in the sources:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Color | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Origin | Mantle, Meteorites |
| Rarity (Large Stones) | Rare |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Some believe it was a gift from Mother Nature to the newly formed world, imbuing it with its stunning color.
Modern metaphysical beliefs suggest that peridot possesses healing powers, helping to overcome nervousness and emotional distress. It is also believed to have a positive impact on the liver, gallbladder, and adrenal function. Some practitioners associate peridot with activating the “root chakra” and alleviating ailments related to the skin, gums, and spine. However, these claims are not scientifically verified and are considered popular beliefs.
Peridot is also associated with specific milestones, notably as the traditional gemstone marking the 16th wedding anniversary.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relative softness, peridot requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its brilliance. It is recommended to clean peridot jewelry with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, warm, soapy water can be used, followed by careful rinsing and drying. Harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes should be avoided.
It is advisable to remove peridot jewelry before swimming or engaging in strenuous activities. When handling peridot, it is best to hold it by the metal setting rather than the gemstone itself to prevent the transfer of natural skin oils, which can dull its surface. Professional cleaning and inspection of the setting are recommended at least once a year to ensure the stone’s security and maintain its luster. Caution should be exercised when using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and high heat should be avoided, as it may affect dyed sardonyx.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a captivating and historically significant gemstone, offering a vibrant green alternative to the more commonly known emerald. Its unique geological origins, ranging from the depths of the Earth’s mantle to the vastness of outer space, contribute to its allure. While relatively soft, proper care ensures that peridot jewelry retains its brilliance for generations. As one of the three birthstones for August, alongside spinel and sardonyx, peridot provides a diverse range of options for celebrating the individuality of those born in this month. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its aesthetic beauty but also in the rich history and symbolism that have been associated with it for millennia.