Peridot, a vibrant green gemstone, holds the distinction of being the primary birthstone for the month of August. Revered for its captivating colour and historical significance, peridot has adorned royalty and been imbued with symbolic meaning for centuries. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for jewellery, celebrated for its beauty and relative affordability. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and modern applications of peridot, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The use of peridot dates back millennia, with evidence of its appreciation in ancient civilizations. Sources indicate the gemstone is believed to bring mental peace and ward off nightmares. A particularly notable application of peridot is found in traditional Irish jewellery, specifically the Claddagh ring. A 14ct gold peridot Claddagh ring, fully hallmarked in Dublin Castle, combines the symbolism of love, loyalty, and friendship with the protective qualities attributed to the gemstone.
The gemstone’s history is interwoven with cultural beliefs. Seoidín, an Irish jewellery company, draws inspiration from the Irish landscape and its rich colours, incorporating peridot into designs that reflect this heritage. The company’s name itself, meaning “little gem” in Irish, underscores the value placed on these natural treasures.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in peridot formation, they do highlight its presence in jewellery crafted in England and Ireland. HuiyiTan, a studio based in England, handmakes peridot rings using natural, untreated stones. Seoidín operates multiple shops across Ireland, showcasing peridot jewellery inspired by the local landscape. James Newman Jewellery emphasizes sourcing materials locally, reducing manufacturing travel miles and supporting an ethical jewellery policy.
The sources do not specify primary mining locations for the peridot used in these pieces, but the emphasis on local sourcing suggests a commitment to regional materials where possible.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized by its distinctive green hue, ranging from olive to brownish-green to a vibrant, pure green. The sources describe the colour as “leaf green” and “celestial colour”. The stones featured in the jewellery range in size, with one example measuring 5.5mm in diameter (brilliant cut) and another in a heart shape measuring 5mm x 5mm.
Several sources detail the materials used in peridot jewellery settings. Sterling silver is a common choice, often plated with 18k gold vermeil. Rings are typically constructed from solid sterling silver, with band thicknesses varying between 1.2mm and 1.4mm. The 14ct gold Claddagh ring is embellished with diamonds (colour H-I, clarity SI1) alongside the peridot.
Gemological data regarding carat weight and specific gravity are limited within the provided sources. However, information regarding the total weight of gemstones and rings is available. A peridot gemstone weighs 0.6g, while a ring incorporating the stone has a total weight of 2.14g.
Here's a table summarizing the gemological properties mentioned in the sources:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Colour | Leaf Green, Olive, Brownish-Green |
| Cut | Brilliant Cut, Heart Shape |
| Diameter/Size | 5.5mm, 5mm x 5mm |
| Material (Setting) | Sterling Silver, 18k Gold Vermeil, 14ct Gold |
| Gemstone Weight | 0.6g |
| Ring Weight | 2.14g |
| Diamond Colour | H-I |
| Diamond Clarity | SI1 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As previously mentioned, peridot is believed to bring mental peace and ward off nightmares. The inclusion of peridot in the Claddagh ring adds a layer of protectiveness to the sentiments of love, loyalty, and friendship. The vibrant green colour itself is often associated with nature, renewal, and growth. James Newman Jewellery highlights the luminosity and vibrancy of peridot, suggesting an association with positivity and energy.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer practical advice on maintaining peridot jewellery. Sterling silver pieces should be kept in a sealed bag when not worn to prevent tarnishing. In the event of tarnishing, cleaning with a silver polish cloth is recommended. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for peridot itself, but given its relative hardness (not explicitly stated in the sources, but generally around 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale), gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water is likely suitable.
Modern Applications and Jewellery Styles
Peridot continues to be a popular choice for contemporary jewellery design. The sources showcase a variety of styles, including dainty gemstone rings, stackable birthstone rings, and traditional Claddagh rings. Rose-cut peridot gemstones are featured in stackable rings, allowing for personalized colour combinations. The molten effect hammered band adds a modern touch to the classic gemstone setting.
Several retailers offer worldwide tracked shipping and gift packaging, making peridot jewellery an ideal present for those born in August. Some companies, like James Newman Jewellery, also offer bespoke jewellery design services, allowing customers to create unique pieces tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
Peridot, the August birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and natural beauty. From its ancient origins and association with protective qualities to its modern applications in diverse jewellery styles, peridot continues to captivate and inspire. The provided sources demonstrate the enduring appeal of this vibrant green gemstone, particularly within the context of Irish heritage and contemporary jewellery design. The emphasis on ethical sourcing and local craftsmanship further enhances the value and significance of peridot jewellery for today’s discerning consumers.