Peridot, with its captivating shades of olive green, holds a prominent place among the birthstones for August, alongside spinel and sardonyx. Revered for over 4,000 years, this gemstone boasts a rich history intertwined with ancient beliefs, volcanic origins, and even mistaken identities. While modern gemological understanding has clarified its unique properties, peridot continues to be valued for its beauty, perceived metaphysical benefits, and connection to both Leo and Virgo zodiac signs. This article delves into the geological formation, historical significance, gemological characteristics, and contemporary uses of peridot, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is one of enduring fascination and occasional confusion. Historically, peridot was often misidentified as other green gemstones, particularly topaz and emerald. The island of Topazios, now known as St. John’s Island in the Red Sea, was believed to be a source of topaz, but in many instances, the “topaz” mined there was actually peridot. This historical conflation is noted by George Frederick Kuntz in his 1913 publication, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, who suggests that the ancient “topaz” frequently referred to what is now known as peridot.
References to peridot appear in early biblical texts, with some scholars believing that the stones mentioned in the High Priest’s breastplate, and those used in the foundations of Jerusalem, were in fact peridot rather than other green gems. Sardonyx and topaz were also referenced as original Biblical birthstones, but peridot’s association with these early lists establishes its long-standing significance.
Ancient Hawaiians attributed a unique origin to peridot, believing the gems to be the tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, brought to the surface by volcanic activity. This connection to volcanic origins is particularly fitting, given peridot’s unusual formation process. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral features 200 carats of gems once thought to be emeralds, but later identified as peridot, demonstrating the gem’s historical use in religious and ornamental contexts. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have included significant quantities of peridot.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is remarkably distinct from that of most other gemstones. It is one of only two gems known to be formed not within the Earth’s crust, but in the molten rock of the upper mantle. This unique origin explains its association with volcanic activity and its presence in unusual geological settings. The gem is found in mafic and ultramafic rocks, occurring in lava and peridotite xenoliths – fragments of the mantle brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions. It also occurs in silica-deficient rocks like volcanic basalt and, notably, in pallasitic meteorites, offering a truly extraterrestrial source.
Today, peridot is sourced from various locations around the globe. Significant deposits are found in China, Pakistan, Tanzania, and the United States. Peridot Beach in Hawaii is particularly renowned for its shimmering green sand, created by ancient lava flows depositing peridot grains after volcanic eruptions. This beach provides a striking visual example of the gem’s volcanic origins.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine. Its characteristic color ranges from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow, though brown shades can also occur. The color is idiochromatic, meaning it originates from the chemical composition of the gemstone itself, rather than from trace elements.
Key gemological properties of peridot include:
- Mineral: Olivine
- Refractive Index: 1.65 to 1.69
- Birefringence: 0.035 to 0.038
- Specific Gravity: 3.34
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7
The Mohs hardness scale places peridot at 6.5 to 7, making it moderately durable but susceptible to scratching and damage from daily wear. This relative softness necessitates careful handling and protective settings in jewelry. While it can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, more rigorous cleaning methods like ultrasonic cleaning are not recommended.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Traditionally, it was believed to possess the power to ward off nightmares, evil, and enchantments, symbolizing strength and protection. Modern metaphysical beliefs attribute a range of benefits to peridot, including the promotion of good luck, abundance, and positive energy.
Peridot is often associated with the heart chakra, believed to foster love, compassion, and emotional balance. It is also thought to enhance mental clarity and protect against negativity. Author Judy Hall suggests that peridot possesses refreshing properties, capable of renewing energy and fostering humility in the face of victory.
The association of peridot with specific zodiac signs further enhances its symbolic significance. It is considered the zodiac stone for Virgo and is often linked to the Leo sign due to its vibrant energy.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, peridot requires careful handling and maintenance. It is susceptible to scratches and abrasions, making protective settings like bezel or halo styles ideal for engagement rings or everyday wear. Cleaning should be performed gently with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided. It is also advisable to store peridot jewelry separately to prevent scratching from other gemstones or materials.
Spinel and Sardonyx: Fellow August Birthstones
While peridot is the most popular August birthstone, spinel and sardonyx also share this designation. Spinel, historically mistaken for ruby, comes in a variety of colors, including red, yellow-orange (rubicelle), purple (almandine), blue (sapphirine), and green (chlorospinel). Its hardness of 7.5 to 8 makes it suitable for everyday wear. Sardonyx, a red and white variety of chalcedony, is the traditional August birthstone, with a history dating back over 4,000 years.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating olive-green gem of August, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of natural beauty and ancient lore. From its unique volcanic origins and historical misidentifications to its symbolic associations and metaphysical properties, peridot continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. Its moderate durability necessitates careful handling, but its vibrant color and rich history make it a cherished and meaningful gemstone for those born under the August sun.