The August birthstone, peridot, is a vibrant green gemstone celebrated for its association with imagination, luck, and protection. Often featured in bracelets and other jewelry, peridot holds a special place in both historical lore and contemporary jewelry design. This article will explore the characteristics of peridot, its historical significance, and practical advice for its care, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Peridot has been valued for its beauty for centuries. While specific historical details are limited within the provided sources, the gemstone is presented as a symbol with positive connotations. Freshly Picked highlights peridot as representing “imagination, luck, and protection,” suggesting a long-held belief in its beneficial properties. The association with these qualities makes it a meaningful choice for birthstone jewelry, particularly bracelets intended to create a bond between a mother and child. The use of peridot in bracelets, as showcased by Freshly Picked, Arlene’s Fine Jewelry, and Alex and Ani, demonstrates its continued popularity as a symbol of connection and positive energy.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation or specific mining locations of peridot. Les Georgettes provides a general overview of the materials used in their jewelry, noting that brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and zirconium oxide is a man-made creation resembling a diamond. However, this information pertains to the materials used in the bracelet settings and embellishments, not the peridot itself. Therefore, no information regarding the origin or formation of peridot can be included based on the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The sources offer limited information regarding the specific gemological properties of peridot. Freshly Picked describes the peridot beads as being 8mm in size. Beyond this, no details regarding its chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or clarity are provided. The sources focus primarily on the aesthetic qualities and symbolic meaning of the gemstone rather than its scientific characteristics.
However, the sources do provide insight into the materials often paired with peridot in jewelry. Les Georgettes details the use of brass, finished with gold, rose gold, or silver plating, and zirconium oxide as a diamond alternative. They emphasize the durability and brilliance of zirconium oxide, noting its scratch-resistance and affordability. These details are relevant when considering the overall quality and value of peridot jewelry.
A table summarizing the materials used in the bracelets described in the sources is provided below:
| Material | Description | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Peridot | 8mm semi-precious stone beads | Freshly Picked |
| Gold | Plated moon beads and FP tag | Freshly Picked |
| Sterling Silver | Bracelet finish option | Herbert Jewelry |
| Rose Gold | Bracelet finish option | Herbert Jewelry |
| Brass | Base metal for Les Georgettes bracelets | Les Georgettes |
| Zirconium Oxide | Colored stones used in Les Georgettes | Les Georgettes |
| Stainless Steel | Curb chain material | Alex and Ani |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As previously mentioned, peridot is strongly associated with positive symbolism. Freshly Picked explicitly links the gemstone to “imagination, luck, and protection.” This suggests a belief in peridot’s ability to foster creativity, bring good fortune, and offer a sense of security. The use of peridot in a bracelet designed to symbolize the bond between a mother and child further reinforces its association with love, connection, and well-being. Alex and Ani connects deep blue sapphire with wisdom, loyalty, and grounding energy, suggesting a similar attribution of symbolic meaning to gemstones. While peridot’s specific metaphysical properties are not detailed, its consistent association with positive attributes indicates a long-standing tradition of attributing power and meaning to the stone.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of peridot jewelry requires careful attention. Freshly Picked provides specific care instructions for their peridot bracelets, advising owners to protect the stone from prolonged sun exposure and contact with water, particularly seawater, to prevent discoloration and damage. They also recommend removing the bracelet during exercise or on hot days to prevent corrosion from sweat. Les Georgettes offers more general advice for jewelry care, suggesting cleaning with a soft, dry cloth and avoiding contact with corrosive chemicals found in perfumes and makeup. They also recommend gentle cleaning with neutral soap and lukewarm water or diluted lemon juice, cautioning against harsh rubbing. These guidelines emphasize the importance of protecting peridot from environmental factors and handling it with care to preserve its luster.
Bracelet Styles and Customization
The sources showcase a variety of peridot bracelet styles. Freshly Picked offers an elastic bracelet with peridot beads and gold moon phase charms. Herbert Jewelry specializes in custom bracelets, offering options for sterling silver, gold, or rose gold finishes and a range of birthstones, including peridot. Arlene’s Fine Jewelry features a flexible tennis bracelet adorned with peridot stones. Les Georgettes presents a chain bracelet with colored zirconium oxides. Alex and Ani offers a curb chain bracelet with a bezel-set sapphire crystal. These examples demonstrate the versatility of peridot and its suitability for various bracelet designs, from minimalist and delicate to more elaborate and eye-catching. Herbert Jewelry also highlights the possibility of personalization, allowing customers to create unique bracelets tailored to their preferences.
Purchasing Options and Retailers
The provided sources represent a range of retailers offering peridot bracelets. Freshly Picked specializes in birthstone bracelets designed for mothers. Herbert Jewelry focuses on custom jewelry and personalized gifts. Alex and Ani offers a selection of charm bracelets and birthstone jewelry. Les Georgettes provides a range of stylish bracelets with various materials and finishes. Arlene’s Fine Jewelry features a selection of tennis bracelets, including peridot options. These retailers cater to different tastes and budgets, offering a variety of choices for those seeking peridot jewelry.
Conclusion
Peridot, the August birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in symbolism and appreciated for its vibrant green hue. While the provided sources offer limited details regarding its geological origins and specific gemological properties, they consistently portray peridot as a stone associated with imagination, luck, and protection. The various bracelet styles showcased by different retailers demonstrate its versatility and enduring appeal. Proper care, as outlined by Freshly Picked and Les Georgettes, is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of peridot jewelry. Ultimately, peridot remains a cherished gemstone, offering a meaningful and beautiful way to celebrate the month of August and the special connections it represents.