August boasts a trio of birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – but peridot stands as the most widely recognized and historically significant. This vibrant green gem, often called the “sun gem” or “evening emerald,” has captivated civilizations for millennia, though its identity has often been confused with other gemstones. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of peridot, exploring its enduring appeal as a birthstone and a treasured gem.
History and Lore
Peridot’s story is interwoven with ancient misidentifications and royal adornments. Its history stretches back over 4,000 years, with early sources primarily located on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, historically known as Topazios. This geographical origin led to a long-standing confusion with topaz, as the name “topaz” was often applied to what we now recognize as peridot. Ancient Egyptians prized peridot, mining it extensively from Zabargad and utilizing it in elaborate jewelry. They believed the gem possessed protective powers and associated it with the sun, referring to it as the “gem of the sun” due to its brilliant shine.
Historical accounts suggest that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have, in fact, consisted largely of peridot. This misidentification continued for centuries, with medieval scholars like Pliny the Elder also referring to peridot as topaz. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral features approximately 200 carats of gems long believed to be emeralds, but now confirmed to be peridot.
More recently, in 2016, the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association updated their birthstone list, solidifying peridot’s position as a primary August birthstone alongside spinel and sardonyx. This addition acknowledges the gem’s enduring popularity and historical significance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem-quality olivine, a mineral composed of magnesium, iron, and silicon ((Mg,Fe)2 SiO4). It forms under extreme conditions, primarily within the Earth’s mantle. The gem is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, found within hardened lava flows, or, remarkably, within pallasite meteorites – stony-iron meteorites that originate from the asteroid belt. While peridot has been discovered in meteorites, these stones are typically too small for use in jewelry.
Historically, the most significant source of peridot was Zabargad Island in the Red Sea. However, modern sources include Myanmar (Burma), Vietnam, Pakistan, and the United States, particularly Arizona. Discoveries in the American Southwest have made peridot jewelry more accessible in recent years. The gem is also found in Brazil, China, and Norway, though these sources are less prominent.
Gemological Properties
Peridot’s defining characteristic is its color – a vibrant green ranging from yellow-green to olive green. This color is a result of the iron content within the olivine structure. Unlike many gemstones, peridot consistently exhibits green hues; it does not occur in other colors. The intensity of the green depends on the amount of iron present.
Here’s a summary of peridot’s key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)2 SiO4 |
| Color | Yellow-green to Olive Green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.653 - 1.683 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.48 |
Peridot is known for its unique capacity to sparkle under both natural and artificial light, earning it the nickname “evening emerald.” However, it is important to note that peridot is distinct from emerald, possessing its own unique chemical composition and optical properties. Its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale makes it relatively durable, but still susceptible to scratches and damage from harder materials.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient Egyptians believed it held protective powers and warded off evil spirits. In many cultures, peridot symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and good fortune. It is also associated with strength, courage, and protection, particularly in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used in amulets and seals.
Some modern beliefs suggest that peridot can promote emotional balance, reduce stress, and enhance creativity. It is often considered a stone of compassion and understanding, fostering positive relationships and attracting good energy. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the gem’s enduring appeal and perceived value.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratches from harder materials, so it should be stored separately from diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
To clean peridot jewelry, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone to remove dirt and grime, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will help maintain peridot’s brilliance and luster. It is also advisable to have peridot jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned periodically to ensure its longevity.
Conclusion
Peridot, the vibrant green birthstone of August, boasts a rich history marked by ancient reverence, geographical misidentification, and enduring beauty. From its origins in the volcanic landscapes of Zabargad Island and the depths of the Earth’s mantle to its modern-day appeal as a cherished gemstone, peridot continues to captivate with its unique color, symbolic significance, and fascinating geological story. Whether admired for its aesthetic qualities or appreciated for its purported metaphysical properties, peridot remains a timeless treasure for those born in August and gemstone enthusiasts alike.