Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx represent the birthstones of August, though peridot stands out as the most widely recognized. This gem, a vibrant yellowish-green to greenish-yellow variety of olivine, boasts a history steeped in ancient lore and a unique geological origin. Often mistaken for emerald or topaz throughout history, peridot holds a special place in the annals of gemology, valued for its beauty and believed protective qualities. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating August birthstone.
History and Lore
The story of peridot stretches back millennia. Ancient Egyptians revered peridot, referring to it as “The Gem of the Sun,” recognizing its rarity and brilliance. Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may, in fact, have been largely composed of peridot. The name “peridot” itself originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.”
Evidence suggests peridot was valued as early as the second century BCE, appearing in the jewelry of priests. During the medieval period, it adorned chalices and churches throughout Europe, signifying its importance in religious contexts. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, peridot was considered a protective talisman, believed to ward off evil spirits and the “terrors of the night.” This belief in its protective powers contributed to its enduring popularity across cultures.
Interestingly, the Red Sea island of Topazios, historically believed to be the source of topaz, was actually a significant source of peridot. This historical misidentification highlights the gem’s visual similarity to other green gemstones. Peridot continues to be a gem associated with celebration, traditionally gifted to commemorate a 16th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is remarkable, occurring under extreme conditions deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, found within hardened lava. This unique origin distinguishes peridot from many other gemstones. Remarkably, peridot can also be discovered in pallasites, a rare type of meteorite containing peridot crystals within an iron-nickel matrix, originating from outer space.
While historically sourced from the Red Sea island of Topazios, modern peridot is primarily found in several key locations. A significant discovery in Tanzania in 2007 yielded spinel in pinkish and orangy red hues, as well as peridot in purple and blue shades, captivating gem collectors. However, the primary sources remain areas with volcanic activity.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine. Its color ranges from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow, with a distinctive slightly oily or greasy luster. Notably, peridot is unique in typically displaying only one color – green – unlike many gemstones that exhibit a wider spectrum.
Regarding durability, peridot registers between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This places it lower than many other gemstones, making it susceptible to scratches and wear, and therefore less suitable for daily wear in rings. Its fragility also presents challenges during the cutting process, as the stone can crack or shatter if not handled carefully. Skilled lapidarists can, however, cut peridot into various shapes, maximizing its brilliance due to its transparency.
Peridot typically occurs in smaller carat weights, with most stones weighing less than five carats. Larger peridot specimens are rarer and, consequently, more valuable.
Here's a summary of Peridot's key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Color | Yellowish-Green to Greenish-Yellow |
| Luster | Oily/Greasy |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Typical Carat Weight | Under 5 carats |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning. The association with the sun in ancient Egypt linked it to light, warmth, and cosmic power. Some believe that lighter-colored peridot gems possess extra-terrestrial energies.
More broadly, the gem has been linked to concepts of mental clarity and healing. While these beliefs are not scientifically substantiated, they contribute to the enduring appeal of peridot for those seeking a gemstone with deeper meaning.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively lower hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. It is not recommended for daily wear in rings due to its susceptibility to scratches. The gem can also be damaged by strong acids and prolonged exposure to acidic perspiration.
Cleaning peridot should be done gently. Steam and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided entirely, as the gem is vulnerable to thermal shock. The safest method involves using a soft-bristle brush with mild dish soap in warm water. Peridot should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching. Exposure to high heat can also cause some colors of peridot to fade, so it should be protected from extreme temperatures.
Other August Birthstones: Spinel and Sardonyx
While peridot is the most popular August birthstone, spinel and sardonyx also hold significance. Spinel, registering an 8 on the Mohs scale, is a durable gem suitable for all types of jewelry. It can be cleaned using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though caution is advised if the stone contains fractures. Spinel is stable when exposed to light and chemicals, but high heat can cause some colors to fade. Recent discoveries in Tanzania have revealed spinel in a variety of hues, including pink, orange, purple, and blue.
Sardonyx, the oldest of the August birthstones, is a combination of chalcedony varieties – sard and onyx – exhibiting bands of brownish-red to dark orange and typically white or black. Historically used for Roman seals and signet rings due to its resistance to hot wax, sardonyx has been a popular material for carving cameos and intaglios for over 4,000 years.
Conclusion
Peridot, with its captivating green hues and fascinating history, remains a cherished gemstone. From its ancient origins as “The Gem of the Sun” to its modern-day status as a beloved August birthstone, peridot continues to enchant and inspire. Its unique geological formation, coupled with its symbolic associations and delicate beauty, ensures its enduring appeal for generations to come. While spinel and sardonyx offer alternative options for those born in August, peridot’s distinctive charm and rich heritage solidify its position as a truly remarkable gem.