Peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant green hues, holds a prominent position as a modern birthstone for August. Alongside spinel, it offers those born in this month a choice between playful light greens and richer, more saturated shades. Historically significant and possessing a unique geological origin, peridot is a gem steeped in lore and appreciated for its beauty and purported healing properties. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating gemstone.
History and Lore
Peridot boasts a rich history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt. It was first found in Egypt and was believed to be adorned by Queen Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, between 51 and 30 BC. The Egyptians held peridot in high regard, referring to it as the “gem of the sun.”
Beyond Egypt, peridot holds cultural significance for other regions. In Hawaii, the gemstone is considered the tears of Pele, the volcanic goddess, reflecting its association with volcanic activity. This connection to volcanic origins is significant, as peridot is often found in volcanic lava flows.
The stone’s history extends into the medieval period, where it was often mistakenly identified as emerald. It was known as the “evening emerald” due to its capacity to sparkle under both natural and artificial light, though it is distinct from emerald in its chemical composition and characteristics. Peridot has been used for centuries in jewelry and ornamentation, symbolizing good health, peace, and harmony. It is also traditionally associated with the 15th wedding anniversary, serving as a meaningful token of enduring love and commitment.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a semi-precious stone with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, primarily composed of olivine, magnesium, and iron. The amount of iron present directly influences the stone’s color and luster, with higher iron content resulting in a more distinct and valuable gem.
The formation of peridot is intrinsically linked to volcanic activity. It is found in both fallen meteorites, specifically Pallasite Meteorites, and within the Earth’s upper mantle, brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. While peridot found in meteorites is often too small for jewelry use, larger, gem-quality stones are commonly sourced from lava flows.
Several locations are renowned for peridot production. Egypt remains a historically significant source, holding the national gem status for the country. In the 1990s, Vietnamese peridot gained popularity among jewelers for its diverse shades of green. Myanmar (Burma) is also known for producing large Burmese peridot stones, prized for their rich color and substantial size. Hawaii, with its volcanic landscape, also yields peridot, deeply embedded in the local culture and mythology.
Gemological Properties
Peridot exhibits distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal. Its color is predominantly a natural light green, though yellow stones have also been found. The intensity of the green hue is directly related to the iron content within the stone.
On the Mohs hardness scale, peridot registers between 6.5 and 7, indicating moderate hardness. This means it is relatively durable but can be susceptible to scratches and damage from harder materials.
While not as brilliant as diamonds, peridot possesses a unique sparkle under both natural and artificial light, earning it the nickname “evening emerald.” Its refractive index and other optical properties contribute to its distinctive appearance.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Color | Light Green |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. Its bright green color is often associated with good health, peace, and harmony. It is popularly known as the “gem of compassion,” believed to bring renewal and positive energy.
Peridot is also thought to possess healing properties. Some believe it can promote restful sleep, calm anger, and even alleviate depression. It is considered a stone that can help individuals overcome obstacles and persevere through challenges, accepting victory with humility.
Beyond personal well-being, peridot is linked to creative expression and eloquence. It is believed to enhance communication skills and inspire artistic endeavors. The stone is also associated with detoxification and boosting metabolism, though these claims are not scientifically substantiated.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its moderate hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning to maintain its brilliance. It is susceptible to scratches from harder materials, so it should be stored separately from diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.
Cleaning peridot jewelry is best done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. After cleaning, rinse the jewelry thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will help preserve the stone’s luster and prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
Alternative August Birthstones
While peridot is a prominent August birthstone, spinel and sardonyx also hold significance. Spinel comes in a variety of colors, including red, pink, blue, and green, with specific color variations having their own industry names like rubicelle (yellow-orange) and almandine (purple). Sardonyx, a banded form of chalcedony, features layers of orange and black. Historically, onyx was the original stone associated with August, valued for its strength and protective qualities.
Conclusion
Peridot, the vibrant green gem of August, is a stone rich in history, symbolism, and geological intrigue. From its ancient origins in Egypt to its modern-day appeal as a birthstone, peridot continues to captivate with its beauty and purported healing properties. Its association with volcanic activity, its unique chemical composition, and its enduring symbolism make it a truly special gemstone, offering a touch of sunshine and renewal to those born under the August sky.