Peridot, the vibrant green gemstone, holds a special place in the world of birthstones as the designated birthstone for the month of August. Revered for its stunning color and rich history, peridot has captivated people for centuries. This article delves into the geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and the various cultural beliefs associated with peridot. From its formation deep within the Earth’s mantle to its appearance in meteorites and its role in ancient civilizations, peridot is a gemstone of both terrestrial and cosmic intrigue.
A Historical Gemstone
Peridot has a long and storied history, with its use dating back to ancient civilizations. The gemstone was particularly favored in ancient Egypt, where it was known as "the Gem of the Sun" and was believed to bestow royal dignity upon its wearer. The island of Zabargad, now known as St. John’s Island in the Red Sea, was one of the earliest known sources of peridot. Mining there began around 340–279 BCE, and the gemstone was so highly valued that it earned the ominous nickname of "Island of Death."
In ancient Rome, peridot was used for protection, to release envious thoughts, and to attract lovers. The gemstone was also used by the Judeo-Christians to decorate church treasures, and it continues to be used in the Catholic Church today. Bishops wear rings that symbolize purity and morality, often set with peridot and amethyst. In Hawaii, peridot is known as "the Tears of Pele," the goddess of fire and volcanoes, highlighting its connection to the volcanic origins of the gemstone.
Peridot was also a significant gemstone in medieval Europe, appearing in the jewelry of priests as early as the second century BCE. It was used in chalices and churches, and was considered a protective talisman against evil spirits and "terrors of the night." The gemstone's use as a protective talisman continued into modern times, where it is believed to ward off bad energy and dispel nightmares when placed under a pillow.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem-quality mineral known as olivine, a common silicate mineral that forms under high pressure and temperature conditions. It is typically found in volcanic rocks and meteorites, which explains its nickname as the "Gem of the Sun." The unique formation process of peridot gives it a distinct color range, from yellowish green to greenish yellow, with the most popular shade known as "chartreuse," named after a French liqueur.
The gemstone is formed when lava cools and hardens, carrying peridot from deep within the Earth's mantle. This process results in the gemstone's occurrence in volcanic regions around the world. The United States, particularly Arizona, is a significant source of peridot, with the San Carlos Apache Reservation being one of the largest deposits. In this region, peridot is mined from a 90-meter-high mesa known as Peridot Mesa, where the stones are extracted using traditional tools due to the brittle nature of the crystals.
Other notable sources of peridot include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. Additionally, peridot has been discovered in meteorites, on the Moon, and even on Mars, making it a truly cosmic gemstone. The gemstone's presence in meteorites is particularly intriguing, as it suggests that peridot may have formed in space before being brought to Earth.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. However, its unique color and brilliance make it a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those born in August, who are said to have peridot as their birthstone.
The gemstone's color is due to the presence of iron in its chemical composition. The more iron present, the more intense the green color. Peridot is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a bright and lively appearance. This property makes it an excellent choice for faceting, allowing the gemstone to display a brilliant sparkle.
Peridot is a single mineral species, with no variations in its chemical composition. However, it can exhibit different inclusions that add to its character. One of the most notable inclusions is the "lily pad" inclusion, which is a small, flat, green mineral that resembles a lily pad. These inclusions are unique to peridot and are often used to identify the gemstone.
In addition to lily pad inclusions, peridot from the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is known for containing natural glass and gas bubbles, which add to its visual appeal. The gemstone is also known for its "smoke-like veils," which are described as resembling kelp floating underwater. These inclusions are best observed under a microscope and are a favorite among gemologists.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has long been associated with various symbolic and metaphysical properties. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection from evil spirits and to promote love and happiness. The gemstone was also used to release envious thoughts and to attract lovers, making it a popular choice for those seeking harmony in their relationships.
In modern times, peridot is believed to have powerful healing properties. It is said to detoxify the blood, slow down the aging process, and help with lymph, breast, lungs, and sinus problems. It is also believed to be beneficial for the eyes, liver, spleen, and stomach. To take advantage of these healing properties, peridot is often worn as a pendant to cover the body area that needs healing.
Peridot is also associated with emotional balance and is believed to help with nightmares, bipolar disorder, and emotional imbalances. To enhance these properties, peridot can be placed under a pillow to dispel nightmares or worn as a talisman to ward off bad energy. The gemstone is also believed to be beneficial for the heart chakra and the solar plexus chakra, helping to promote emotional well-being and self-confidence.
In addition to its healing properties, peridot is believed to increase energy, love, and prosperity. It is said to be a powerful gemstone for attracting success and love, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their lives. The gemstone's association with the sun and its bright, vibrant color make it a symbol of positivity and vitality.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, peridot requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. The gemstone should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that can cause scratches or damage. When cleaning peridot, it is best to use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used, but it is important to avoid using steam cleaners, as the high heat can cause the gemstone to crack or become damaged.
Peridot should also be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store the gemstone in a soft cloth or a lined jewelry box to protect it from dust and debris. When wearing peridot jewelry, it is important to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the gemstone to crack.
To maintain the gemstone's brilliance, it is important to have it professionally cleaned and inspected periodically. A professional jeweler can check for any signs of wear or damage and provide recommendations for proper care. By following these care and cleaning tips, peridot can be enjoyed for many years and passed down as a cherished family heirloom.
Conclusion
Peridot is a remarkable gemstone with a rich history, unique geological properties, and a wide range of cultural and metaphysical beliefs. From its formation in volcanic rocks and meteorites to its use in ancient civilizations and modern jewelry, peridot continues to captivate people with its vibrant green color and cosmic origins. Whether worn as a birthstone, a wedding anniversary gift, or for its healing properties, peridot is a gemstone that offers both beauty and meaning. Its association with the sun, protection, and positivity makes it a symbol of hope and vitality, ensuring its place as a cherished gemstone for generations to come.