Peridot, with its captivating green hues, holds a prominent place as one of the recognized birthstones for August. Often referred to as “evening emeralds” due to its vibrant color in low light, this gem boasts a rich history stretching back millennia, from the ancient Egyptians to medieval European royalty. While August also recognizes spinel and sardonyx as birthstones, peridot maintains a classic status, celebrated for its unique geological origins, symbolic meanings, and enduring beauty. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, and cultural significance of peridot, providing a comprehensive overview of this fascinating gemstone.
A History Rooted in Misidentification and Royal Adornment
The story of peridot is intertwined with historical misidentification. For centuries, peridot was often mistaken for emeralds, particularly in ancient times. Ancient Egyptians, as early as 1500 BC, prized peridot sourced from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, referring to it as the “gem of the sun.” They believed it possessed protective qualities, warding off nightmares and bestowing confidence, health, and positive energy upon the wearer. This island remained a significant source of peridot until the early 20th century.
Cleopatra herself was known to adorn herself with green gems, and some historians speculate that many of these were, in fact, peridots rather than emeralds. This association with royalty continued into the Middle Ages, where peridot was highly valued by European royals and clergy. It was frequently used to decorate church altars and clerical robes, and was believed to protect against “the terrors of the night.” A striking example of this is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, dating back to 1248, which features over 200 carats of peridot that were originally thought to be emeralds.
The name “topaz” itself has a curious connection to peridot. The ancient Greek name for the Red Sea island of Zabargad was Topazios, and early writers, like Pliny the Elder, incorrectly attributed the name “topaz” to the green gems mined there – which were, in reality, peridot. The modern understanding of topaz as a distinct gemstone developed later. More recently, in 2016, the Jewelers of America and the American Gem Trade Association updated their birthstone list, solidifying peridot’s position alongside spinel as a traditional August birthstone.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
Peridot is the gem-quality transparent variety of olivine, a mineral composed of magnesium-iron silicates. Its green color arises from the presence of iron within the crystal structure, with the intensity of the green hue dependent on the amount of iron present. A brownish tinge indicates a higher iron content. The gem’s formation occurs under extreme conditions, often found in hardened lava that has carried the crystals from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Remarkably, peridot has even been discovered within meteorites, originating from outer space.
While the Red Sea island of Zabargad was historically the primary source of peridot, significant deposits are now found in various locations around the globe. Norway, Brazil, China, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Australia, Mexico, and the Mogok district of Myanmar (Burma) are all known to produce peridot crystals. The San Carlos Indian reservation in Arizona, USA, is also a notable source, yielding smaller peridot stones. The island of Zabargad itself is a desolate landscape, lacking fresh water and experiencing scorching temperatures, yet it continues to yield gem crystals lining fissures in the rock, and even greenish-hued beaches due to the abundance of tiny peridot crystals.
Gemological Properties: A Closer Examination
Peridot exhibits a consistent color, occurring in only one color – green – although the shade can vary from olive to lime green. This distinguishes it from many other gemstones that display a wider range of colors. Its chemical formula is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄, indicating its composition of magnesium and iron silicates.
While a detailed analysis of properties like refractive index and specific gravity isn’t provided in the available sources, the gem’s hardness is not explicitly stated. However, its consistent use in jewelry throughout history suggests a reasonable durability. The sources do note that some peridot stones appear greener under artificial light, earning them the nickname “evening emeralds.” This characteristic is a result of the way light interacts with the iron content within the crystal structure.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient Egyptians believed it protected against nightmares and brought confidence and positive energy. In medieval times, it was considered a charm against evil and enchantment. Modern metaphysical practitioners, such as Melody, suggest that peridot aids in navigating personal cycles, healing emotional wounds, and magnifying inner awareness. It is also believed to create a protective field around the body and bring good luck, particularly to mothers during childbirth.
The gem’s association with the sun in ancient Egypt further reinforces its symbolism of light, warmth, and vitality. While specific beliefs vary across cultures, peridot consistently represents positive energy, protection, and emotional well-being.
Care and Cleaning
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions, the gem’s composition suggests a need for careful handling. As a silicate mineral, peridot is susceptible to scratching and damage from harsh chemicals. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. Regular cleaning will help maintain peridot’s vibrant color and brilliance.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones, blending a rich history with captivating beauty and symbolic significance. From its ancient origins as the “gem of the sun” in Egypt to its modern status as a cherished August birthstone, peridot has captivated cultures for millennia. Its unique geological formation, consistent green hue, and association with positive energy make it a truly remarkable gem. Whether admired for its aesthetic appeal or cherished for its metaphysical properties, peridot continues to hold a special place in the world of gemstones.