August, the month of summer's peak and historical transformation, is named after Augustus Caesar, the first Emperor of Rome. This month was once called Sextilis, and it carries with it a legacy of vibrant gemstones and rich symbolism. Among its treasures is peridot, the official birthstone for August and a gemstone steeped in history, science, and cultural significance.
This article explores the multifaceted nature of peridot, detailing its geological origins, historical usage, symbolic meanings, and care requirements. As one of the few gemstones found in only one color—green—peridot stands out in the world of gemology. Alongside peridot, August is also associated with spinel and sardonyx, making it one of the few months with multiple birthstones. The following sections will delve into the fascinating world of peridot, with supporting insights into its companions—spinel and sardonyx.
History and Lore
Peridot is not a new discovery in the world of gemstones. Its use dates back to 1500 BCE, when it was already cherished by the ancient Egyptians. They referred to the gem as the "gem of the sun", believing it brought confidence, health, and protection from nightmares. The Egyptians sourced their peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, an area still known for its high-quality deposits.
Zabargad, now also called Topazios, was a vital location in the ancient gem trade. Despite its importance, the island was known for its harsh conditions and was sometimes called the "Island of Death" or "Snake Island" due to its dangerous environment. The peridot mined here was highly prized, with some of the finest specimens still displayed in prestigious museums today.
In medieval Europe, peridot was widely used by the clergy and nobility. It was incorporated into church altars, clerical robes, and jewelry, often believed to carry protective and spiritual properties. One notable example is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, where over 200 carats of peridot were mistakenly identified as emeralds for centuries.
Peridot also made an appearance in ancient Roman and Greek cultures, where it was used in amulets and jewelry. Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been peridot, highlighting the gem’s historical significance and how easily it could be mistaken for other stones.
In addition to its religious and royal uses, peridot was also valued for its metaphysical properties. It was believed to bring positive energy, abundance, and protection against negative influences. These beliefs persisted through the Victorian era, when peridot jewelry became fashionable and continued to be a symbol of good fortune and vitality.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate of iron and magnesium. Its green color is due to the presence of iron in its chemical structure. The gem forms in high-temperature environments, such as volcanic lava flows and meteorites, which explains its nickname: "the gem from the sky."
Peridot can be found in a few distinct geological settings:
- Volcanic Lava Flows: Olivine crystals form as lava cools and solidifies. These environments are particularly rich in peridot, especially in regions with active volcanism.
- Meteorites: Peridot has been identified in extraterrestrial sources, including meteorites that have fallen to Earth. These cosmic stones are rare and highly prized by collectors.
- Meteorite Impact Sites: Some peridot deposits are found in areas where meteorites have struck the Earth, creating the extreme conditions necessary for the gem to form.
- Beach Sand Deposits: The green sands of Peridot Beach in Hawaii are a natural phenomenon caused by peridot-rich volcanic rock being eroded and deposited by the sea.
Modern peridot is primarily sourced from mines in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. The Egyptian island of Zabargad, once a major source, still produces some of the finest peridot in the world. Other notable sources include Arizona in the United States, where peridot is found in volcanic rock formations.
The formation of peridot is a testament to the Earth’s dynamic processes. It is a gem that not only reflects the planet’s inner workings but also connects to the broader universe through its meteorite origins.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a silicate mineral with a hexagonal crystal system. Its chemical composition is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄, and its color is caused by iron impurities. The gem is known for its translucency, glassy luster, and distinctive green hue, which ranges from pale lime green to deep olive.
Key Gemological Characteristics of Peridot:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Yellow-green to green-yellow |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 to 7 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 to 1.69 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.3 to 4.6 |
| Cleavage | Perfect in one direction |
| (prone to chipping) | |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cut | Commonly cut as a brilliant or mixed cut |
Peridot is relatively tough but not particularly hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. This means it can be scratched by harder materials like quartz (7) and topaz (8). As a result, peridot jewelry should be handled with care to avoid scratches or chips, especially in rings and other pieces that experience daily wear.
The gem is also cleavable, meaning it can split along specific planes with relative ease. This perfect cleavage makes it prone to chipping if struck at the right angle, so it should be set in secure mountings to prevent damage.
Peridot is often cut in a brilliant or mixed cut to enhance its sparkle and color. It can also be found in cabochon form, especially in jewelry designs that emphasize its chatoyancy or chatoyant sheen. The most desirable peridot stones are those with a rich green color, high transparency, and minimal inclusions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, abundance, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off nightmares and bring mental clarity and confidence. The gem was also thought to attract wealth and prosperity, making it a popular choice for amulets and talismans.
In medieval Europe, peridot was used in religious and royal settings, where it was believed to enhance spiritual connection and protect against evil influences. It was often worn by priests and nobility as a sign of virtue and power.
Modern metaphysical beliefs also attribute healing properties to peridot. It is believed to soothe emotional stress, alleviate anxiety, and promote a sense of calm. Some practitioners use peridot in energy healing and chakra work, particularly for the heart and solar plexus chakras, to restore balance and vitality.
In addition to its emotional and spiritual properties, peridot is also associated with physical health. Some believe it can aid digestion, detoxify the body, and boost the immune system. While these claims are not scientifically validated, they reflect the deep cultural and historical significance of the gem.
Peridot is also the gemstone given to celebrate the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love and harmony. This further reinforces its role as a symbol of connection, positivity, and strength.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot requires careful handling due to its relatively low hardness and perfect cleavage. To maintain its brilliance and longevity, it is important to follow these care and cleaning guidelines:
General Care Tips for Peridot:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents, acids, or solvents, which can damage the surface or alter the color.
- Avoid high heat, as peridot can be sensitive to temperature changes.
- Store peridot separately from harder gemstones like diamonds and sapphires to prevent scratches.
- Remove peridot jewelry before engaging in physical activities to avoid impacts that could cause chipping or cracking.
- Inspect jewelry regularly for loose settings or prongs, especially in rings and pendants that experience daily wear.
Cleaning Methods:
- Warm soapy water and a soft brush are the safest and most effective ways to clean peridot.
- Ultrasonic cleaners can be used with caution, but only if the gemstone is untreated and free of fractures or inclusions.
- Steam cleaning is generally not recommended for peridot due to its cleavage and sensitivity.
By following these care and cleaning practices, peridot jewelry can be preserved for generations, continuing to shine with the same vibrant green glow that has captivated people for thousands of years.
Conclusion
Peridot, the official birthstone of August, is a gemstone with a rich history, fascinating geology, and deep symbolic meaning. From the ancient Egyptians who revered it as the "gem of the sun" to the Victorians who adorned themselves with its vibrant green brilliance, peridot has played a significant role in human culture and gemology.
Its green color, caused by the presence of iron, is unique and unmistakable, making it one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color. Peridot forms in extreme conditions, from volcanic lava flows to meteorites, and is found in some of the most unique and beautiful locations on Earth.
Peridot is not only a beautiful gemstone but also a symbol of positivity, protection, and abundance. It has been used in religious, royal, and personal jewelry, and its metaphysical properties continue to attract those seeking balance, healing, and emotional well-being.
For those born in August or those who simply love the radiant green glow of peridot, this gemstone is a treasure worth cherishing. Whether worn as jewelry, carried as an amulet, or displayed in a museum, peridot continues to inspire and enchant with its beauty and history.