Peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its distinctive olive-green hue, holds the primary position as the August birthstone. Alongside spinel and sardonyx, peridot represents those born in the eighth month, embodying growth, prosperity, and a connection to the natural world. This gem’s history stretches back millennia, interwoven with ancient beliefs, royal adornments, and even extraterrestrial origins. Its unique formation process, coupled with its vibrant color, makes peridot a fascinating subject for both gemologists and enthusiasts alike.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is deeply rooted in history, with references appearing in ancient texts and traditions. The Bible’s Old and New Testaments mention stones and jewels by color, and while peridot isn’t specifically named, its green hue aligns with the symbolism of life and renewal prevalent in those writings. In the fifth century, Christian academics linked twelve stones to the months of the year and the signs of the zodiac, suggesting that wearing a birthstone during its designated period would bestow beneficial properties.
The name “peridot” itself is of uncertain origin, though it is believed to derive either from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem,” or the Greek word “peridona,” translating to “give in abundance.” Regardless of its etymological roots, the gem has long been associated with positive attributes. Its resemblance to the color of money has historically linked peridot to prosperity and good fortune.
Beyond its association with wealth, peridot has been considered a stone of protection, love, loyalty, and growth. It is also traditionally given as a gift to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring commitment and shared prosperity.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is remarkably unique among gemstones. Unlike most gems that originate in the Earth’s crust, peridot forms deep within the Earth’s mantle, a region over 400 kilometers below the surface. This process occurs over millions of years, mirroring the conditions required for diamond formation – in fact, these are the only two gems that form at such depths.
Peridot crystals are brought to the surface during volcanic eruptions, carried within basalt rock as the magma cools and solidifies. A particularly intriguing source of peridot lies beyond Earth itself; raw peridot stones have been discovered embedded in pallasitic meteorites, such as the Jepara meteorite found on the island of Java, making it a truly extraterrestrial gem.
Historically, Egypt was the primary source of peridot for over 3,500 years, with stones mined from Zabargad Island. Today, however, the most highly regarded peridot comes from the Kashmir region of Pakistan, producing stones with exceptional size and a pure lime-green color. Other significant sources include Arizona, specifically the San Carlos Apache Reservation, where smaller stones with excellent clarity and color are found, as well as China, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Arizona peridot tends to be smaller but can have excellent clarity and color.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a gem quality of the mineral forsterite, a magnesium iron silicate with the chemical formula typically expressed as (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. It is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color, though the shade can vary considerably. The color range spans from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green, with the most desirable hues being a vibrant, pure green. The green shade is determined by the iron composition within the stone; ferrous iron (FeO) creates the green color, while ferric iron (Fe2O3) contributes to more yellow shades.
Peridot exhibits a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for most jewelry applications, though it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is a “day stone” and a “night stone,” meaning it retains its shining color even under artificial lighting, earning it the nickname “Evening Emerald.”
The gem’s spectral analysis reveals a unique color profile, with a primary chromatic signature exhibiting 75% saturation and 85% brightness. This contributes to its distinctive and appealing appearance.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Color | Yellowish-Green to Olive to Brownish-Green |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.48 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Red gems, including spinel, were believed to be a remedy for blood loss and inflammatory diseases, easing anger and promoting harmony. While peridot’s symbolism is more closely tied to prosperity and good fortune, it is also associated with growth, love, loyalty, and protection.
The association with prosperity likely stems from the gem’s resemblance to the color of money, while its protective qualities may be linked to ancient beliefs in its ability to ward off negative energies. Some modern interpretations suggest peridot can help release negative emotions and promote self-confidence.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is relatively durable but still requires careful handling. It is susceptible to scratches from harder materials and can be damaged by harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
To clean peridot jewelry, it is best to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steam cleaners. After cleaning, rinse the jewelry thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. It is also advisable to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when exposed to harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning will help maintain the gem’s brilliance and luster.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating August birthstone, is a gem of rich history, unique geological origins, and enduring symbolism. From its ancient roots in Egyptian mines and royal adornments to its modern-day appreciation for its vibrant green hue and metaphysical properties, peridot continues to captivate and inspire. Its formation deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even its presence in meteorites, adds to its mystique, solidifying its place as a truly remarkable and treasured gemstone. Its association with prosperity, growth, and protection makes it a meaningful gift and a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection.