Peridot, alongside spinel and sardonyx, holds the distinction of being a birthstone for August. Revered throughout history and prized for its unique yellowish-green hue, peridot boasts a fascinating origin story, ranging from volcanic depths to extraterrestrial arrivals in meteorites. This article delves into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating gemstone.
History and Lore
Peridot’s history stretches back millennia, with early sources often conflating it with other green gems like emerald and topaz. The island of Topazios in the Red Sea, now known as St. John’s Island, was once believed to be the primary source of “topaz,” but in reality, yielded significant quantities of peridot. This misidentification persisted for centuries, contributing to the gem’s early mystique.
Some historians speculate that the famed emerald collection of Cleopatra may have largely consisted of peridot, highlighting its use and value in ancient civilizations. The gem’s presence in the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, where 200 carats of stones previously thought to be emeralds were identified as peridot, further illustrates its historical significance and the challenges in accurate gemological identification.
Sardonyx initially held the sole designation as the August birthstone, a tradition dating back over 4,000 years to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Peridot was later added to the list as its similar color range often led to confusion. In 2016, spinel was introduced as a third option, offering a wider selection for those born in August. Despite the addition of spinel and the historical prominence of sardonyx, peridot remains the most widely recognized and popular August birthstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is formed under extreme conditions, originating deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, specifically within hardened lava flows. Uniquely, peridot has also been discovered within Pallasite meteorites, originating from outer space. While meteorite-sourced peridot is often too small for jewelry use, its existence adds to the gem’s allure and mystique.
The sources mentioned do not detail specific modern mining locations, but emphasize the gem’s formation in the Earth’s upper mantle and its presence in volcanic regions.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. Its color is a result of the iron content within the olivine structure, ranging from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow, and even olive shades. This consistent green hue remains stable under various lighting conditions.
The sources do not provide detailed gemological data such as refractive index, specific gravity, or crystal system. However, they do characterize peridot as a “semi-precious stone” and note its capacity to “sparkle under natural or artificial light,” earning it the nickname “evening emerald.” It is important to note that while visually similar, peridot possesses distinct characteristics that differentiate it from emerald.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings. It is often linked to abundance, protection, and positivity. Ancient Romans believed that wearing sardonyx, another August birthstone, would attract love due to its fiery red shades. Sardonyx was also worn by warriors as a talisman for courage and protection in battle, engraved with images of heroic gods. Romans also utilized sardonyx for seals, appreciating its property of preventing hot wax from adhering, making it ideal for imprinting official documents.
In Renaissance times, sardonyx was believed to enhance communication and clear thinking, making it a favored stone among public speakers. Peridot itself, while not explicitly detailed with specific metaphysical beliefs in the provided sources, is generally associated with warding off evil and promoting inner peace.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide limited information regarding the care and cleaning of peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. However, based on the general properties of gemstones, it is advisable to clean peridot jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these may damage the stone.
The sources do mention that spinel is a more affordable alternative to rubies and sapphires, suggesting a relative durability. Sardonyx, due to its historical use in seals, appears to be relatively resistant to wear. However, specific care instructions for each gem are not detailed within the provided materials.
Conclusion
Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx represent a rich tapestry of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning for those born in August. While sardonyx holds the longest-standing association with the month, peridot has emerged as the most popular and widely recognized birthstone. Its unique formation, ranging from volcanic depths to extraterrestrial origins, combined with its captivating color and historical significance, makes peridot a truly remarkable gemstone. The addition of spinel in 2016 provides a modern alternative, offering a wider range of colors and styles for August birthdays.