The August birthstone, peridot, is a captivating gemstone celebrated for its distinctive green hue. Valued for millennia, this gem boasts a rich history, fascinating geological origins, and enduring symbolic significance. Peridot’s vibrant color, ranging from olive to brownish-green, stems from its unique chemical composition and has made it a cherished stone in jewelry and a symbol of strength and renewal across cultures. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone.
A History Steeped in Sunlight
Peridot’s story stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC. Known as the “gem of the sun,” it was believed to possess protective qualities, warding off nightmares and bestowing confidence, health, and positive energy upon its wearer. Ancient Egyptians sourced their peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, a location that remained a significant source for centuries, until the early 20th century. The island itself was known by ominous names like Island of Death and Ophiodes (“snake island”) due to its harsh conditions, yet the beauty of the peridot it yielded was highly prized.
During the Middle Ages, peridot gained prominence in Europe, becoming a favored gem among royalty and the clergy. It was frequently used to adorn church altars and embellish clerical robes, signifying its importance and reverence. The stone’s popularity continued through the Victorian era, where it found its place in intricate jewelry designs. Even today, peridot holds a special place in tradition, serving as the gemstone to commemorate a 16th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
Peridot is a fascinating gem in that it can arrive on Earth in rather unusual ways. While most peridot found in contemporary jewelry originates from sources like China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States, some specimens have been discovered within meteorites. This extraterrestrial origin adds to the mystique surrounding the gem. A particularly intriguing location is Peridot Beach in Hawaii, where the sands themselves shimmer with a luminous green hue due to the presence of peridot crystals.
The island of Zabargad remains a historically significant source. Mining on the island may have begun as early as 340–279 BCE, and the peridot from this location continues to be highly sought after by collectors and is often found in prestigious museum collections. A 2007 discovery in Tanzania yielded peridot in unusual hues, including purple and blue, further expanding the gem’s color range and captivating gem enthusiasts.
Gemological Properties: A Closer Look
The name “peridot” originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” This August birthstone is unique in that it typically occurs in only one color – green – although the intensity and specific tint can vary depending on the amount of iron present in the crystal structure.
While the provided sources do not detail the full spectrum of gemological properties, they do offer some insight. Further research would be needed to provide a comprehensive analysis of properties like refractive index, specific gravity, and crystal system. However, the sources do not contain this information.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Ancient Egyptians believed it offered protection against nightmares and fostered a sense of well-being. This belief in its protective qualities persisted through the centuries, with peridot being used as a talisman to shield the wearer from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.”
More recently, the stone is associated with courage, happiness, and clear communication, and is believed to bring stability to marriage and partnerships. The association with strength and renewal, as highlighted in contemporary marketing materials, echoes the ancient belief in its power to bestow health and positive energy.
Caring for Your Peridot
Maintaining the beauty of peridot requires gentle care. As the sources indicate, it is advisable to remove peridot jewelry before showering, swimming, or engaging in strenuous activities. Contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and cleaning products should also be avoided, as these substances can damage the gem’s finish.
Cleaning peridot jewelry regularly with a soft, dry cloth is recommended. While ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used with caution, warm soapy water applied with a soft-bristle brush is the safest option. It is important to note that some forms of chalcedony, like sardonyx (another August birthstone), are commonly dyed, and high heat could affect the color.
Other August Birthstones: Spinel and Sardonyx
While peridot is the most widely recognized August birthstone, spinel and sardonyx also hold this designation. Spinel, with a Mohs hardness of 8, is a durable gem suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though caution is advised if the stone contains fractures.
Sardonyx, a combination of sard and onyx chalcedony, has been used for millennia, notably in Roman seals and signet rings due to its resistance to hot wax. It is believed to represent the strength of spiritual life and was worn by Roman soldiers for protection in battle. Sardonyx has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7 and requires gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Like peridot, it should be handled with care, especially when set in rings.
Conclusion
Peridot, the vibrant green August birthstone, is a gem with a captivating history and enduring appeal. From its ancient origins as the “gem of the sun” in Egypt to its modern-day status as a symbol of strength and renewal, peridot continues to enchant and inspire. Its unique geological formation, ranging from terrestrial volcanic sources to extraterrestrial meteorites, adds to its mystique. Whether admired for its beauty, cherished for its symbolic meaning, or simply enjoyed as a stunning piece of jewelry, peridot remains a treasured gemstone for those born in August and beyond.