The birthstone for those born on August 9th is peridot, a vibrant green gemstone that has been cherished for millennia. Known for its striking color and historical significance, peridot is more than just a decorative stone—it is a symbol of protection, healing, and prosperity. This article explores the rich history, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care of peridot, drawing from a range of authoritative and historical sources.
A Brief Overview
Peridot is the official birthstone for August, and for those born specifically on August 9th, it holds a special place in the annals of gemstone history. This gemstone, often called the “gem of the sun,” has been used in jewelry and sacred objects for thousands of years. As a member of the olivine mineral group, peridot is unique in that it is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color—green—though the exact shade can vary depending on the iron content in its crystal structure.
This article will delve into peridot’s historical and cultural significance, its geological formation and sources, its gemological properties, and its metaphysical and symbolic meanings. It will also provide practical advice on how to care for and maintain peridot jewelry.
History and Lore
Peridot's history is as rich and colorful as its appearance. Known in ancient times as "chrysolite," peridot has been revered for its protective and healing properties across multiple cultures and civilizations.
Ancient Egypt and the "Gem of the Sun"
Ancient Egyptians were among the earliest known admirers of peridot. They referred to it as the “gem of the sun” and believed it had protective properties, particularly against the terrors of the night. Pharaohs and high-ranking officials often wore peridot in rings and pendants, associating it with solar energy and divine favor. Some sources suggest that the gemstone was even used in sacred rituals and placed in tombs to guide the deceased into the afterlife.
Medieval Europe and Misidentification
During the medieval period, peridot was often confused with emerald and topaz, both of which have similar green hues. Many of the so-called “emeralds” in European cathedral treasures have since been identified as peridots. This historical confusion highlights the gemstone’s versatility and its ability to mimic more valuable stones, though it also led to a period of diminished recognition for peridot.
Modern Recognition and Cultural Significance
In the modern era, peridot was officially designated as the birthstone for August in both the United States and the United Kingdom. While sardonyx and spinel are also recognized as alternative August birthstones, peridot remains the most prominent and widely accepted. In contemporary jewelry, peridot is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its purported ability to bring peace, good fortune, and success to its wearer.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origin of peridot is essential to appreciating its rarity and beauty. Peridot forms deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. This process gives the gemstone its unique characteristics and makes it relatively rare in commercial quantities.
Formation and Composition
Peridot is a member of the olivine mineral group, and its chemical composition is primarily iron magnesium silicate (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. The presence of iron in its crystal lattice determines the intensity of its green color. The higher the iron content, the deeper and more vibrant the green.
Peridot is typically found in igneous rocks such as basalt and peridotite. It is also known to occur in meteorites, where it is referred to as “pallasite.” The fact that peridot can be found in extraterrestrial rocks makes it one of the few gemstones with a cosmic origin.
Notable Sources
Peridot is mined in various parts of the world, including:
- Zabargad Island (St. John’s Island), located in the Red Sea, was historically the most significant source of peridot. This island has been a major supplier of high-quality peridot since ancient times.
- Arizona, particularly in the United States, is a notable modern source of peridot. The San Carlos Apache Reservation and the area around Yavapai County are known for their deposits.
- Pakistan, Myanmar, and China also produce peridot, though the quality and color can vary.
Despite its geological rarity, peridot is not considered extremely rare in the gemstone market. However, high-quality stones with a vivid green color and minimal inclusions are highly sought after and command premium prices.
A Table of Key Gemological Data for Peridot
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 - 1.85 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.25 - 4.40 |
| Color | Yellow-green to olive-green |
| Common Cut | Faceted, often round or oval |
| Cleavage | Perfect in two directions |
| Inclusions | Common, often visible |
| Origin of Name | From the Arabic “faridat” (gem) |
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a fascinating gemstone not only for its history but also for its unique gemological properties. Understanding these properties is essential for gemologists, jewelers, and collectors alike.
Color and Transparency
As previously mentioned, peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in a single color—green. However, the exact shade of green can vary widely depending on the iron content in the crystal. High-quality peridot exhibits a vivid lime or olive-green color, while lower-quality stones may appear more yellowish or brownish.
Peridot is typically transparent to translucent, with a glassy luster that enhances its beauty. The presence of inclusions is common, and these can include small crystals, gas bubbles, or fractures. While inclusions are generally not detrimental to the gemstone’s value, excessive or visible inclusions may affect its clarity grade.
Hardness and Durability
On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7, which is moderate for a gemstone. This means that while peridot is durable enough for everyday wear, it is not as hard as diamonds or sapphires and is susceptible to scratches and abrasions. Peridot also has perfect cleavage in two directions, which makes it vulnerable to chipping or breaking if subjected to impact.
Due to its lower hardness and cleavage, peridot is best suited for jewelry that is worn occasionally, such as earrings, pendants, or brooches. For rings or bracelets, it is advisable to use protective settings or to consider alternative gemstones that are more resistant to damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is not only admired for its physical beauty but also for its rich symbolism and metaphysical properties. Across different cultures and time periods, peridot has been associated with protection, healing, and positive energy.
Ancient and Historical Symbolism
In ancient Egypt, peridot was believed to have protective properties against the terrors of the night. It was also associated with the sun and was thought to bring light and warmth. The stone was often used in sacred rituals and was considered a symbol of divine favor.
During the medieval period, peridot was believed to have healing properties and was used in remedies for various ailments. It was also thought to protect its wearer from negative energies and evil spirits.
Modern Metaphysical Beliefs
In modern gemstone lore, peridot is believed to promote inner peace, emotional healing, and spiritual growth. It is often used in meditation and is said to help clear the mind and dispel negative thoughts. Peridot is also associated with prosperity and abundance, making it a popular choice for those seeking financial success.
Peridot is also considered a stone of transformation, helping individuals let go of old patterns and embrace new beginnings. It is believed to stimulate creativity and enhance personal power, making it a valuable tool for those undergoing personal or professional changes.
Cultural Variations
While peridot is universally admired for its protective and healing properties, different cultures have assigned unique meanings to the gemstone. For example, in some Asian cultures, peridot is associated with good luck and is often given as a gift during important life events such as weddings and births.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its moderate hardness and perfect cleavage, peridot requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Proper cleaning and storage are essential to prevent damage and ensure the gemstone remains in excellent condition.
Cleaning Methods
Peridot should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. A soft brush, such as a toothbrush, can be used to gently remove dirt and debris. However, ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can cause damage to the gemstone, especially if it has inclusions or fractures.
For routine cleaning, it is best to use a damp cloth to wipe the surface of the gemstone. Harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and excessive heat should also be avoided, as they can dull the luster or cause the stone to crack.
Storage and Handling
When not in use, peridot should be stored in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent it from coming into contact with other gemstones or hard surfaces that could scratch or chip it. It is also advisable to store peridot separately from harder gemstones such as diamonds or sapphires.
When handling peridot jewelry, it is best to avoid exposing it to physical impacts or sudden temperature changes. This is particularly important for rings and bracelets, which are more likely to be subjected to wear and tear.
Conclusion
Peridot, the birthstone for those born on August 9th, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and historical significance. Its vibrant green color, unique geological formation, and rich symbolism make it a valuable addition to any jewelry collection. Whether admired for its physical properties or its metaphysical qualities, peridot continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
From its ancient origins as the “gem of the sun” to its modern recognition as a birthstone of protection and prosperity, peridot has endured as a symbol of light, healing, and transformation. With proper care and appreciation, peridot can be enjoyed for generations, preserving its beauty and meaning for years to come.