The August 15th Birthstone: Peridot—A Green Gemstone of Cosmic Origins and Ancient Significance

The August 15th birthstone is peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its vivid green hues and its unique geological and historical significance. Peridot is among the few gemstones that occur in only one color—green—though its shades can vary from a pale yellow-green to a rich, deep olive. Known for its cosmic origins and ancient allure, peridot has been cherished for millennia, appearing in the jewelry of Egyptian pharaohs and medieval European royalty. This article explores the gemstone’s history, geological properties, symbolism, and care, offering a comprehensive look at one of the most captivating August birthstones.

Introduction

Peridot is the birthstone for those born on August 15th, and it is also one of the traditional birthstones for the entire month of August, along with spinel and sardonyx. While peridot is the primary gemstone associated with this date, its significance extends beyond its use as a birthstone. It has a long and storied history, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern jewelry design. Peridot is also notable for its unique formation—being found not only in the Earth’s crust but also in volcanic lava and meteorites. This article delves into the rich history and symbolism of peridot, its geological properties, and the care it requires to preserve its beauty.

History and Lore

Peridot has a history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use in ancient Egyptian jewelry as early as 1500 BCE. The Egyptians referred to peridot as the "gem of the Sun" and believed it possessed powerful healing and protective properties. They also associated it with light and vitality, often using it in religious and ceremonial contexts. One of the most well-known ancient sources of peridot is the island of Zabargad (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, a place that has been mined for this gemstone for centuries.

The gemstone’s name is derived from the French word perit, meaning "to pass through," which may refer to the way peridot was historically transported from Zabargad to the mainland. During the Middle Ages, peridot was often confused with other green gemstones such as topaz and emerald, leading to its misidentification in many historical collections. For instance, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, which features 200 carats of gemstones, was long thought to contain emeralds—until modern gemological analysis revealed that the gems were, in fact, peridot.

Peridot also has a fascinating connection to ancient meteorites and volcanic activity. It is one of the few gemstones that can be found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, as well as in the hardened lava of volcanic eruptions. This extraterrestrial and terrestrial duality makes peridot a rare and intriguing gemstone, with a presence that extends beyond the Earth itself.

In modern times, peridot has gained renewed appreciation, particularly in the 20th century when it was officially recognized as one of the traditional August birthstones. Its popularity has grown due to its affordability, vibrant color, and the increasing demand for alternative gemstones to more expensive options like emeralds and rubies. Peridot is now widely used in jewelry, from rings and earrings to pendants and bracelets, and is especially popular in engagement and promise rings as a more budget-friendly alternative.

Geological Formation and Sources

Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate mineral with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. It forms under extreme geological conditions, typically in the Earth’s mantle, and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The intense heat and pressure required for peridot’s formation make it a relatively rare gemstone, though it can be found in a few key locations around the world.

One of the most notable sources of peridot is the island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea. This island has been mined for peridot since ancient times and is still an important source today. The gemstone is also found in other parts of the world, including the United States (particularly in Arizona and Hawaii), Myanmar, China, and various African countries. In Hawaii, peridot is often found in volcanic lava flows, where it forms as the molten rock cools and solidifies.

In addition to its presence on Earth, peridot can be found in meteorites that have fallen to the planet. This extraterrestrial origin adds to the gemstone’s allure and makes it one of the few gemstones that can be truly considered to have a "cosmic" origin. Peridot found in meteorites is often referred to as "chondritic olivine" and is prized for its scientific and aesthetic value.

Peridot is typically cut in a variety of styles, including brilliant cuts, mixed cuts, and cabochons, depending on the desired aesthetic and the quality of the gemstone. It is most commonly seen in transparent to translucent green stones, with the finest examples exhibiting a rich, vivid color that is both eye-catching and elegant.

Gemological Properties

Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone compared to other popular birthstones, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This means that it is more susceptible to scratches and damage than harder gemstones like diamonds, rubies, or sapphires. As a result, it is best suited for jewelry that is not worn daily or that can be protected by a more durable setting.

The refractive index of peridot ranges from 1.650 to 1.690, which gives it a moderate level of brilliance and sparkle. It is typically found in a single color—green—though the shade can vary depending on the iron content within the stone. Stones with a higher iron content tend to appear more yellow-green, while those with a lower iron content are more olive-green or brownish-green in hue.

Peridot is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows the gemstone to display different colors when viewed from different angles. While most peridot exhibits only a slight change in color, some stones can appear yellowish or greenish depending on the lighting and viewing angle. This unique characteristic adds to the gemstone’s visual appeal.

In terms of clarity, peridot is generally free from inclusions and is often considered to be of high clarity. However, it can sometimes contain small mineral inclusions or gas bubbles, which are natural features of the gemstone and do not detract from its beauty or value.

Peridot is typically heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity, a process that is common in the gemstone industry. This treatment can deepen the green hue of the stone and improve its overall appearance. While untreated peridot is rare and valuable, most commercially available peridot has been heat-treated to some extent.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, vitality, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to have healing properties and was often used in amulets and charms to ward off illness and negative energy. The Egyptians also believed that peridot could bring joy and happiness, and it was often given as a gift to those who were feeling down or in need of emotional support.

In medieval Europe, peridot was considered a symbol of light and was often used in religious jewelry and artifacts. It was believed to have the power to dispel nightmares and negative thoughts, and it was commonly worn as a protective talisman. Some sources suggest that peridot was also used in love magic and was believed to enhance romantic relationships and attract new love.

In modern metaphysical traditions, peridot is associated with the heart and solar plexus chakras. It is believed to promote emotional healing, self-confidence, and inner strength. It is also thought to help with digestion and metabolism, making it a popular gemstone for those interested in holistic health and wellness.

Peridot is also considered a stone of abundance and prosperity. It is often used in feng shui and other energy practices to attract wealth, success, and good fortune. Many people wear peridot jewelry to enhance their personal power and to help them achieve their goals and aspirations.

Despite its many positive associations, peridot has also been the subject of some superstitions and myths. In the past, some people believed that peridot could be harmful if worn during the night, as it was thought to attract negative energy and cause nightmares. However, these beliefs are largely unfounded and are not supported by modern gemological or scientific research.

Care and Cleaning

Due to its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, peridot requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. It is important to avoid exposing the gemstone to harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and extreme temperatures, as these can cause damage or discoloration.

Peridot should be cleaned with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild soap and water. A soft-bristled brush can be used to gently remove any dirt or debris, but it is important to avoid using harsh scrubbing agents or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone.

When storing peridot jewelry, it is best to keep the gemstone in a separate compartment or pouch to prevent it from coming into contact with harder gemstones that could scratch its surface. Peridot should also be stored away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as prolonged exposure can cause the stone to fade or lose its luster.

Peridot is not suitable for use in jewelry that is worn during physical activities or sports, as it can be easily damaged. It is best suited for special occasions and formal events, where it can be admired and enjoyed without the risk of damage.

Conclusion

Peridot is a gemstone with a rich history, unique geological properties, and deep symbolism. As the August 15th birthstone, it represents a connection to the earth, the cosmos, and the ancient traditions that have cherished it for centuries. Its vibrant green color, cosmic origins, and healing properties make it a truly special gemstone that continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers around the world.

Whether worn as a piece of fine jewelry or used in metaphysical practices, peridot is a gemstone that carries with it a sense of beauty, strength, and positive energy. Its affordability and availability make it an accessible choice for those looking to add a meaningful and elegant gemstone to their collection.