Peridot, a vibrant green gemstone, holds the distinction of being a primary birthstone for August, alongside spinel and sardonyx. Throughout history, this gem has been prized for its unique color and intriguing origins, often mistaken for other, more well-known stones like emeralds and topaz. Its formation under extreme geological conditions – sometimes within the Earth’s mantle and even in meteorites – adds to its mystique. This article will delve into the history, geological sources, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of peridot, providing a comprehensive overview of this captivating August birthstone.
History and Lore
The story of peridot is one of historical misidentification and enduring appeal. Ancient civilizations frequently confused peridot with emeralds, particularly stones sourced from the Red Sea island of Topazios – a location that ironically lent its name to the gem topaz. Sources indicate that the island was a significant source of peridot, rather than the topaz it was believed to yield.
The gem’s history extends back millennia, with some historians speculating that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have, in fact, been largely composed of peridot. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral features approximately 200 carats of gems once thought to be emeralds, but now identified as peridot. This demonstrates the gem’s long-standing use in significant religious and historical artifacts.
For centuries, peridot was valued not only for its beauty but also for its perceived protective powers. While specific beliefs varied across cultures, the gem was often associated with strength, renewal, and warding off evil.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate mineral rich in iron and magnesium. Its formation occurs under extreme conditions, primarily within the Earth’s mantle. The gem is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, found within hardened lava flows, or, remarkably, within meteorites. A 2007 discovery in Tanzania yielded spinel in pinkish, orangy red, purple, and blue hues, adding to the gem’s diversity.
While historically sourced from the Red Sea island of Topazios, peridot is now found in various locations around the world. Though the provided sources do not detail specific mining locations beyond Tanzania, the gem’s presence in meteorites highlights its extraterrestrial origins.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized by its distinctive yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hue. Its color is due to the presence of iron within its chemical composition. The gem typically exhibits a vitreous luster and ranges in clarity from transparent to translucent.
While a detailed chemical formula or refractive index is not provided in the sources, peridot is known to be relatively durable, registering at approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications, though it is still susceptible to scratching and requires careful handling.
Here's a summary of the gemological properties based on the provided sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Color | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7 (estimated) |
| Origin | Earth’s mantle, volcanic activity, meteorites |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is often associated with strength and renewal, reflecting its vibrant green color and connection to nature. The sources highlight its symbolism as a representation of inner radiance and a timeless gift for those born in August. While the sources do not elaborate on specific metaphysical beliefs, the gem’s historical use in protective amulets suggests a long-held belief in its ability to ward off negative energies.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of peridot jewelry requires gentle care. The sources recommend removing jewelry before showering, swimming, or engaging in strenuous activities. Contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and cleaning products should be avoided, as these substances can damage the gem’s surface.
Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is recommended to remove dust and dirt. While ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, caution is advised if the gem contains fractures. Warm soapy water provides a safe and effective alternative for cleaning peridot jewelry.
Peridot in Jewelry
The provided sources showcase peridot’s versatility in jewelry design. Examples include dainty stacking bands, dangle earrings, necklaces, and solitaire rings, often crafted in 14k gold or sterling silver. Peridot is frequently paired with diamonds to enhance its brilliance and create eye-catching designs. The gem’s availability in various cuts and sizes allows for a wide range of jewelry styles, from delicate and minimalist pieces to bold and statement-making designs.
The sources also mention the availability of peridot in different metal settings, including 14k yellow gold, sterling silver, and gold vermeil. Gold vermeil, specifically, is described as a thicker gold plating over sterling silver, offering a luxurious appearance and enhanced durability.
Purchasing Peridot Jewelry
When purchasing peridot jewelry, it’s important to consider the quality of the gem and the craftsmanship of the setting. Natural gemstones may exhibit slight variations in color, which adds to their unique character. Sterling silver pieces are typically stamped with “925” to verify their authenticity, while gold vermeil pieces should have a gold thickness of at least 2.5 microns.
The sources emphasize the importance of proper storage, recommending that each piece be stored individually in a pouch to prevent scratching and damage.
Conclusion
Peridot, the captivating August birthstone, boasts a rich history, intriguing geological origins, and a vibrant green hue that symbolizes strength and renewal. From its ancient misidentification as emerald to its modern use in stunning jewelry designs, peridot continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. Its relative durability and ease of care make it a practical and beautiful choice for everyday wear, while its historical and symbolic significance adds a layer of depth and meaning to any piece. Peridot remains a timeless gem, cherished for its beauty, its history, and its connection to the natural world.