The August birthstone is peridot, a gemstone cherished for its vivid green color and rich symbolism. This semi-precious stone has long been associated with positive energy, protection, and clarity. In this article, we will explore peridot’s historical and cultural significance, its geological properties, and the ways it is crafted into jewelry, particularly in the form of bracelets. Additionally, we will provide detailed care instructions to ensure that peridot jewelry retains its beauty over time.
Peridot is the official birthstone for the month of August and is widely recognized for its radiant green hue. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot is only found in one color—green—ranging from a pale yellow-green to a deep olive green. This unique characteristic makes it a standout gemstone in the world of jewelry. Peridot is also known for its association with positive energy and emotional well-being, making it a meaningful choice for those born in August or those who wish to embrace its symbolic power.
The gemstone’s popularity has led to the creation of various jewelry pieces, including bracelets, earrings, pendants, and rings. These items are often crafted with peridot semi-precious stones, as seen in the August Birthstone Bracelet from Freshly Picked, which features 8mm semi-precious stone beads. These bracelets are designed to symbolize imagination, luck, and protection, and are often enhanced with gold-plated elements and charms to represent different stages of a woman’s life.
History and Lore of Peridot
Peridot has a long and storied history that spans across different cultures and time periods. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and the Chinese, revered peridot for its beauty and believed it to possess protective properties. The Egyptians referred to peridot as the “gem of the sun” and believed it to be a symbol of light and warmth. In medieval Europe, peridot was often used in religious jewelry and was believed to ward off nightmares and evil spirits.
The gemstone was also highly valued by the Romans, who used it in cameos and other decorative arts. During the Renaissance, peridot was a popular gemstone for jewelry, particularly in the form of rings and pendants. In more recent times, peridot has been featured in various cultural and artistic expressions, including literature and film. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the rich symbolism it carries.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a type of olivine, a group of minerals that form in the Earth’s mantle and are brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The gemstone is typically found in volcanic rocks and is formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. The presence of iron in the crystal structure is responsible for the gemstone’s green color. The more iron present, the deeper the green hue.
Peridot can be found in various parts of the world, including the United States, Brazil, China, Egypt, and India. The most significant sources of high-quality peridot are in Arizona, USA, and in the islands of Zabargad in the Red Sea. These locations are known for producing peridot with vibrant colors and excellent clarity.
The gemstone is relatively abundant, which makes it more affordable than other precious gemstones. This affordability has contributed to its popularity in jewelry, particularly in pieces like the August Birthstone Bracelet, which uses peridot semi-precious stone beads. The bracelet is made with elastic, making it easy to wear and comfortable for everyday use.
Gemological Properties of Peridot
Peridot is a unique gemstone with distinct gemological properties that set it apart from other stones. Its chemical composition is primarily composed of magnesium, iron, and silica, forming the mineral olivine. The gemstone’s refractive index ranges from 1.65 to 1.70, which gives it a moderate brilliance. Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches and damage if not handled carefully.
The gemstone is typically transparent to translucent, with a vitreous luster. Its color is the most distinguishing feature, ranging from a light yellow-green to a deep olive green. The presence of inclusions is common in peridot, but these do not detract from its beauty and are often considered part of its natural character.
Peridot is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows the gemstone to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect adds to the gemstone’s visual appeal and makes it a popular choice for jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures and time periods. In ancient Egypt, peridot was believed to have protective qualities and was used in amulets to ward off evil spirits and promote good fortune. The gemstone was also thought to bring clarity and focus, making it a popular choice for those seeking mental and emotional balance.
In medieval Europe, peridot was believed to have the power to dispel nightmares and bring about peace and tranquility. It was often used in religious jewelry and was thought to have a calming effect on the wearer. In more recent times, peridot has been associated with love, compassion, and healing. It is believed to promote emotional well-being and to help individuals overcome negative emotions.
The gemstone is also considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck. This belief has led to the creation of jewelry pieces like the August Birthstone Bracelet, which features peridot semi-precious stone beads to symbolize imagination, luck, and protection. The inclusion of gold-plated moon phase charms on the bracelet is meant to represent the women who came before the wearer, the woman the wearer is today, and the woman she hopes to be.
Care and Cleaning of Peridot Jewelry
Given peridot’s relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, it is important to take proper care of peridot jewelry to ensure its longevity and beauty. The gemstone is susceptible to scratches and damage if not handled properly, so it is essential to follow specific care instructions to maintain its appearance.
One of the most important steps in caring for peridot jewelry is to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. The gemstone should not be cleaned with harsh detergents, bleach, or ammonia, as these can cause discoloration or damage to the stone. Instead, peridot jewelry should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. A gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the gemstone.
It is also important to store peridot jewelry in a safe and secure place to prevent scratches and damage. The gemstone should be stored separately from other jewelry pieces to avoid contact with harder gemstones, such as diamonds or rubies, which can scratch peridot. A soft pouch or a jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal for storing peridot jewelry.
Additionally, peridot jewelry should be removed before engaging in activities that may expose it to physical stress or impact. This includes activities such as sports, gardening, or cleaning. It is also advisable to remove peridot jewelry before swimming or washing hands, as exposure to water, particularly seawater, can cause damage to the gemstone.
For jewelry pieces like the August Birthstone Bracelet, which features elastic, it is important to avoid excessive stretching or exposure to heat, as these can cause the elastic to break or lose its shape. The bracelet should be handled gently and stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its integrity.
Conclusion
Peridot is a gemstone with a rich history, unique geological properties, and significant symbolic meaning. As the August birthstone, it represents positive energy, protection, and emotional well-being. Its vibrant green color and affordability make it a popular choice for jewelry, particularly in the form of bracelets. The August Birthstone Bracelet from Freshly Picked is an excellent example of how peridot can be used in jewelry to create a meaningful and beautiful piece.
To ensure the longevity of peridot jewelry, it is essential to follow proper care and cleaning instructions. By avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and physical stress, peridot jewelry can retain its beauty and value for years to come. Whether used as a personal adornment or as a gift for someone born in August, peridot jewelry is a timeless and meaningful choice that celebrates the gemstone’s enduring appeal.