The combination of peridot, the August birthstone, and the dragonfly motif appears frequently in contemporary jewelry design. While the historical connection between peridot and dragonflies is not explicitly detailed in available sources, the gemstone’s association with renewal and joy, coupled with the dragonfly’s symbolism of transformation and protection, creates a compelling pairing. This article explores the characteristics of peridot as presented in available resources, its use in jewelry featuring the dragonfly, and the artisans involved in crafting these pieces.
Peridot: A Gem of Solar Joy
Peridot is identified as the birthstone for August, representing protection, renewal, and solar joy. It is described as a “heart-opening crystal” believed to promote abundance and spiritual renewal. The gemstone is frequently set in sterling silver, sometimes enhanced with gold plating, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. Jewelers utilize peridot stones measuring 5*7mm in size, often alongside other gemstones like lab-created rubies to create visually striking designs.
The Dragonfly Motif in Jewelry
The dragonfly is a popular design element in jewelry, appearing in brooches, pendants, and cocktail rings. The dragonfly motif is often crafted in sterling silver with rhodium plating, and may be embellished with gemstones. The Irish Jewelry Company specializes in Celtic dragonfly pendants, featuring a bezel-set cubic zirconia amethyst. Other designs incorporate peridot, amethyst, and garnet, showcasing the versatility of the dragonfly form. The dragonfly is not only aesthetically pleasing but also carries symbolic weight, representing transformation, adaptability, and illusion.
Artisanal Craftsmanship and Global Origins
Several jewelry pieces featuring peridot and the dragonfly motif are created by artisans from Bali and Java, as well as India. These artisans bring unique skills and traditions to their work. Kiva, a platform supporting artisan borrowers, highlights the stories of individuals like Asunta Pelaez, Nyoman Rena, and Tiraphan Hasub, who dedicate themselves to jewelry making. Asunta Pelaez has been practicing her art for over two decades, influenced by her husband’s family. Nyoman Rena learned wood carving from his grandfather, and Tiraphan Hasub focuses on creating original jewelry designs. These artisans contribute to the creation of pieces like peridot and amethyst cocktail rings, garnet butterfly rings, and intricately designed dragonfly brooches.
Materials and Construction
The jewelry pieces discussed utilize a variety of materials. Sterling silver is a common base metal, valued for its durability and hypoallergenic properties. Gold-plated sterling silver offers an affordable luxury option. Gemstones used include peridot, amethyst, garnet, and cubic zirconia. The construction techniques vary depending on the design, but often involve bezel settings to secure the gemstones. The size of a peridot dragonfly brooch is approximately 0.92"1.63"(23.4341.42mm). Celtic dragonfly pendants measure around 33mm in length.
Purchasing and Shipping Information
Jewelhalo provides information regarding shipping options, including standard, express, and free shipping for orders over $99. Orders are typically processed within 1-3 business days. Estimated delivery times for standard shipping are 7-14 business days, while express shipping takes 5-10 business days. Customers can track their shipments using a provided tracking number. Delays may occur due to weather conditions, customs processing, or unforeseen circumstances. Jewelhalo offers a cancellation policy allowing orders to be canceled within 12 hours of placement.
Caring for Your Jewelry
Sterling silver jewelry requires gentle polishing with a soft cloth and storage in a dry, airtight container to prevent tarnishing. Gold-plated sterling silver also benefits from careful storage to maintain its finish. Peridot, while a durable gemstone, should be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage. Specific care instructions for peridot beyond general gemstone care are not detailed in the provided sources.
Returns and Refunds
Jewelhalo provides a return and refund policy for customer satisfaction. Orders can be canceled within 12 hours of placement, and refunds are issued for canceled orders that have not yet shipped.
Summary
The combination of peridot and the dragonfly motif in jewelry represents a blend of symbolic meaning and artisanal craftsmanship. Peridot, the August birthstone, embodies protection, renewal, and joy, while the dragonfly symbolizes transformation and adaptability. These pieces are often crafted by skilled artisans from Bali, Java, and India, utilizing materials like sterling silver, gold plating, and a variety of gemstones. The available sources highlight the importance of careful craftsmanship, responsible sourcing, and customer satisfaction in the creation and sale of these unique jewelry items.