Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx represent the birthstones for August, though peridot stands as the most widely recognized. This gem, characterized by its distinctive yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hues, boasts a unique origin story – found within hardened lava flows, meteorites, and the Earth’s mantle. Throughout history, peridot has been valued for its beauty and believed protective qualities, often mistaken for other gems like topaz and emerald. This article will delve into the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this fascinating August birthstone.
History and Lore
The name “peridot” originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” Its history stretches back millennia, with evidence of its use as early as the second century BCE in the jewelry of priests. Medieval Europe also embraced the gem, incorporating it into chalices and church decorations. The gem’s perceived protective powers led to its use as a talisman against evil spirits and nighttime terrors.
Ancient Egyptians particularly prized peridot, sourcing it from the island of Zabargad – historically known as Topazios – in the Red Sea. Mining on this island began as early as 340–279 BCE, though the harsh conditions earned it ominous names like the Island of Death and Ophiodes (“snake island”). Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually consisted largely of peridot. Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other green gemstones, including emeralds and topaz, due to its similar coloration.
Peridot also holds a modern significance, traditionally given as a gift to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, composed primarily of magnesium, iron, silicon, and oxygen. The amount of iron present within the crystal structure dictates the intensity of the green hue. Its formation is remarkable, occurring both deep within the Earth’s mantle and, exceptionally, within meteorites.
Volcanic activity brings peridot to the surface, transporting it via lava flows. Peridot has also been found in pallasite meteorites, though these stones are typically too small for use in jewelry. Larger, gem-quality peridot is sourced from the Earth’s upper mantle.
Today, significant sources of peridot include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. Hawaii is also notable for Peridot Beach, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green color due to the presence of peridot grains. The historic source of Zabargad remains a desirable location for high-quality specimens, with some of the finest examples found in museums worldwide.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is classified as a semi-precious stone. Its color ranges from yellowish-green to brown-green, with lime green and olive green shades being the most sought after. The gem exhibits a unique capacity to sparkle under both natural and artificial light, earning it the nickname “evening emerald.”
While visually similar to emerald, peridot possesses distinct gemological properties. It has a crystal-like appearance, unlike the more stone-like appearance of sardonyx. Spinel, another August birthstone, is harder than peridot, scoring an 8 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while peridot’s hardness is not explicitly stated in the provided sources.
The gem’s color is directly related to its iron content. Peridot is comprised of four elements: magnesium, iron, silicon, and oxygen.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 |
| Color | Yellowish-green to Brown-green |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings. Ancient cultures valued it as a protective talisman, believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against “terrors of the night.” Its association with the sun is reflected in its nickname, “sun gem.”
While the sources do not detail extensive metaphysical beliefs, the gem’s historical use as a protective amulet suggests a belief in its power to influence well-being and provide spiritual defense.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for peridot. However, given its composition and relative softness compared to other gemstones, gentle care is recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes. Cleaning can be performed with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Conclusion
Peridot is a captivating gemstone with a rich history and unique origins. From its ancient use as a protective talisman to its modern status as an August birthstone and a symbol of 16th wedding anniversaries, peridot continues to fascinate and delight. Its formation within the Earth’s mantle and even within meteorites adds to its mystique, making it a truly special gem – a small piece of our vast and wondrous universe. Its distinctive yellowish-green hue and sparkling brilliance ensure its enduring appeal for generations to come.