Peridot, with its captivating shades of green, holds a prominent place among gemstones, particularly as the traditional birthstone for August. Celebrated for its association with renewal, protection, and the energy of the sun, this gem boasts a history stretching back millennia, from the ancient civilizations of Egypt to modern jewelry designs. While often linked to August birthdays and the 16th wedding anniversary, peridot’s appeal extends far beyond these formalities, offering a vibrant and affordable alternative to more saturated gemstones.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is deeply interwoven with historical accounts and cultural beliefs. Its earliest known origins trace back to ancient Egypt, where it was revered and often referred to as the “gem of the sun.” Sources indicate that peridot adorned the jewelry of Queen Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, between 51 and 30 BC. This association cemented its status as a gemstone of significant importance and royal favor.
Beyond Egypt, peridot holds a special place in Hawaiian culture. The volcanic islands consider peridot to be the crystallized tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, highlighting a connection to the earth’s powerful forces. This belief underscores the gem’s perceived protective qualities and its link to the natural world.
Throughout history, peridot has been valued for its purported ability to ward off evil and nightmares, carrying with it a gift of inner radiance. Many cultures believed it could sharpen the mind, open the heart to growth, and help individuals discover their true purpose. Its use in jewelry dates back thousands of years, appearing in beads, necklaces, and faceted stones set in rings.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is the gem-quality form of olivine, a mineral found in volcanic rock. Interestingly, some peridot has even been discovered within meteorites, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin for certain specimens. The intensity of peridot’s color is directly related to the amount of iron ore present within the stone; a higher iron content results in a more distinct and valuable gem.
Historically, Egypt was a primary source of peridot. However, significant deposits have since been discovered in other locations around the world. Myanmar (Burma) is known for producing large Burmese peridot stones, prized for their rich color. Vietnam has also emerged as a notable source, offering peridot in a variety of green shades since the 1990s. More recently, Tanzania has become a significant producer, yielding stones in pinkish and orangy-red hues, alongside the more traditional green varieties. Additional sources include Arizona, Pakistan, and China.
Gemological Properties
Peridot’s vibrant green color is its most defining characteristic. While predominantly natural light green, variations can range from yellowish-green to brown. The most sought-after peridot stones exhibit a lime green or olive-green hue. When compared to fancy color diamonds, the peridot’s color most closely resembles a Fancy Vivid Yellowish Green diamond.
On the Mohs hardness scale, peridot measures between 6.5 and 7, indicating a moderate level of durability. This makes it suitable for everyday wear, though jewelers often recommend protective settings, such as bezels, particularly for rings, to prevent chipping or scratching.
Peridot is stable when exposed to light and most chemicals. However, prolonged exposure to high heat can cause some colors to fade. Care should be taken to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, and gentle cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. It is also advisable to store peridot jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Here's a summary of Peridot's key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Color | Light Green, Yellow-Green, Olive-Green, Brown |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to Translucent |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot’s bright green color is strongly associated with good health, peace, and harmony. It is often referred to as the “gem of compassion,” believed to bring renewal to all aspects of life. Wearing peridot is popularly thought to promote restful sleep and calm feelings of anger. Some believe it can even help alleviate depression.
The stone is also traditionally associated with the 15th wedding anniversary, serving as a symbol of enduring love and commitment. Its connection to the zodiac sign Leo, ruled by the sun, further reinforces its association with vitality and renewal.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of peridot requires gentle care. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. Instead, clean peridot jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Store peridot pieces separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Jewelers often recommend bezel settings for rings to provide additional protection against wear and tear.
Conclusion
Peridot, the August birthstone, is a captivating gem with a rich history, vibrant color, and enduring symbolism. From its ancient origins in Egypt to its modern-day appeal in jewelry, peridot continues to inspire and delight. Its association with renewal, protection, and the sun’s energy makes it a meaningful and versatile gemstone for anyone seeking a touch of natural beauty and positive energy. While not as widely recognized as some other birthstones, peridot’s unique qualities and affordability make it a delightful and extraordinary choice for jewelry enthusiasts.