For individuals born on August 20th, the designated birthstone is Peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant, lime-green hue and its unique geological origins. As the primary birthstone for the entire month of August, Peridot stands out among gemstones for occurring naturally in only one color, though its specific shade can vary. Belonging to the olivine mineral family, this gem is distinct from many others because its color is intrinsic to its chemical composition rather than the result of trace impurities.
Peridot is often referred to as the "gem of the sun," a title derived from its warm, golden-green glow and its ancient association with solar deities. Its history is as rich as its color, dating back to ancient civilizations who mined it on islands in the Red Sea. Today, it remains a symbol of strength, good fortune, and peace. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of Peridot, detailing its historical journey, geological formation, gemological properties, and practical care instructions, offering a complete guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
The history of Peridot is deeply rooted in antiquity, with evidence of its use and admiration stretching back thousands of years. The earliest known mining operations for this gemstone took place on the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. Historical records and archaeological findings suggest that mining began here as early as 1500 B.C. The ancient Egyptians held this gemstone in particularly high regard, referring to it as the "gem of the sun." They believed that Peridot possessed the power to harness the energy and influence of Ra, their sun god, offering protection and vitality to the wearer.
Throughout history, the allure of Peridot has led to frequent confusion with other precious green stones. In many medieval European cathedral treasures, gems originally cataloged as emeralds have been reidentified by modern gemologists as Peridot. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, for instance, is adorned with 200 carats of gems that were long believed to be emeralds but are, in fact, Peridot. This confusion was not limited to emeralds; the Red Sea island of Topazios, a source that gave rise to the name "topaz," actually produced Peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous collection of emeralds may have partially, or entirely, consisted of Peridot.
The name "Peridot" itself is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This linguistic root highlights the stone's long-standing value in Middle Eastern cultures. The gem’s significance extended beyond mere ornamentation; it was woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of various societies. In the Middle Ages, Peridot was worn for its perceived ability to provide foresight and inspiration. The Romans utilized the stone as a talisman against enchantment and evil spirits, believing it offered protection from dark magic.
In a more modern context, the Peridot’s connection to the cosmos was confirmed in 2005. Upon the return of the Stardust space probe, scientists discovered peridot particles within comet dust, proving that this gemstone is not only formed deep within the Earth but also exists in outer space. This celestial connection reinforces its ancient title as the "gem of the sun." Furthermore, Peridot is the designated gemstone for the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing a enduring and radiant bond.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation process is as unique as its color. It is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. Unlike many gemstones that crystallize in the Earth's crust, Peridot is formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface by volcanic activity, often found within the hardened lava that carries it from the planet's interior. This geological rarity means that large, gem-quality crystals are not common.
The primary source of Peridot in ancient times was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. While this location remains historically significant, modern sources of Peridot are more widespread. The gem is mined in various parts of the world, often in regions with significant volcanic activity. Key sources include Pakistan, which produces some of the finest large crystals, as well as Arizona in the United States, Myanmar, and China. The ability of Peridot to survive the journey from the mantle to the surface in recognizable form is a testament to its durability, though it remains a relatively soft stone compared to others like diamond or sapphire.
The discovery of Peridot in meteorites—termed "pallasite meteorites"—further distinguishes its origin. These extraterrestrial sources provide evidence that the same olivine mineral that forms deep within the Earth also crystallizes in the vacuum of space. This dual origin story adds a layer of scientific fascination to the gemstone, appealing to collectors and geologists interested in planetary formation and mineralogy.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of Peridot is essential for gemologists and anyone looking to purchase or care for this gemstone. Its distinct characteristics set it apart from other green gems.
Chemical Composition and Crystal Structure
Peridot is composed of magnesium iron silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. It belongs to the olivine group of minerals and crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. The distinctive green color of Peridot is caused by the presence of iron; unlike many other gemstones, the color is not the result of trace chemical impurities but is a fundamental part of its chemical makeup. The intensity of the green hue depends on the amount of iron present within the crystal lattice. A higher iron content generally results in a richer, more saturated green, while lower levels can produce a lighter, yellowish-green shade.
Hardness and Durability
On the Mohs scale of hardness, Peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7.0. While this makes it durable enough for everyday wear, it is softer than many other popular gemstones such as sapphire (9), ruby (9), and diamond (10). Consequently, Peridot is susceptible to scratching and abrasion if not handled with care. It also possesses indistinct cleavage, meaning it can break along certain planes if struck with sufficient force, though it is not as prone to cleaving as stones like topaz.
Color and Clarity
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in essentially only one color: green. However, the range of this green is notable. The shade can vary from a bright, lime-green to a yellowish-green, an olive tone, or even a brownish-green. The most prized color is typically a rich, pure olive green without any brownish tints.
In terms of clarity, Peridot is generally found as "eye-clean" stones, meaning they lack visible inclusions to the naked eye. However, like all natural gemstones, inclusions are common. Unique to Peridot, some stones may contain "lily pad" inclusions—round, disc-like features—or small black spots of spinel crystals. These inclusions can help gemologists distinguish natural Peridot from synthetic imitations.
Comparison of August Birthstones
While Peridot is the primary birthstone for August, sources note that Sardonyx and Spinel are also recognized as traditional and modern alternatives. The following table summarizes the key distinctions based on information provided in the sources:
| Gemstone | Mineral Family | Primary Color(s) | Mohs Hardness | Historical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Olivine | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | 6.5 - 7.0 | "Gem of the sun," ancient Egyptian mining, confused with emerald. |
| Sardonyx | Chalcedony (Quartz) | Reddish-white banded appearance | 6.5 - 7.0 | Original August birthstone; stone of protection, courage, and bravery. |
| Spinel | Spinel | Various (Red spinel mistaken for ruby) | 8.0 | Recently added; historically undervalued due to resemblance to ruby. |
This comparison highlights why Peridot remains the most associated gemstone for August. Its singular color and unique formation process give it a distinct identity among its peers.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to Peridot is as vibrant as its color. Across centuries and cultures, this gemstone has been attributed with various powers and meanings, ranging from protection to emotional healing.
As the "gem of the sun," Peridot has always been associated with light, warmth, and energy. Ancient Egyptians believed it protected its wearer from the "terrors of the night," effectively warding off evil spirits and darkness. This solar connection suggests a symbolism of clarity, truth, and enlightenment. It was thought to bring the power of the sun god Ra to the individual, bestowing strength and authority.
In the Middle Ages, the focus of its symbolism shifted slightly toward intellectual and spiritual gifts. It was worn to cultivate foresight and to inspire the wearer, acting as a stone of clarity that could cut through confusion and indecision. The Romans, pragmatic and superstitious, used it as a shield against enchantment, believing it could break spells and prevent manipulation.
Modern metaphysical beliefs, while not formally part of gemological science, reflect these ancient traditions. Peridot is widely considered a stone of friendship, passion, and renewal. It is believed to open the heart to joy and gratitude, helping to heal emotional wounds and fostering a sense of peace. For those born in August, particularly on the 20th, Peridot is said to bring good luck, peace, and success. Its energy is viewed as restorative, helping to regenerate the body and mind, much like the regenerative power of the sun each day.
The connection to the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks around mid-August, adds a celestial layer to its symbolism. For those born in the second half of the month, Peridot is seen as a stone of "mid-month power," balancing the fiery energy of Leo season with the coming transition into autumn. It represents a bridge between the abundance of summer and the harvest of fall.
Care and Cleaning
Given its specific gemological properties, particularly its hardness and cleavage characteristics, Peridot requires careful maintenance to preserve its beauty and structural integrity. Owners of Peridot jewelry should adhere to specific guidelines for daily wear and cleaning.
Daily Wear and Precautions
With a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7.0, Peridot is softer than many gems commonly used in jewelry. It is susceptible to scratches from contact with harder materials, including other gemstones, metal surfaces, and even dust (which can contain quartz particles). Therefore, it is advisable to store Peridot jewelry separately from other pieces, ideally in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box compartment.
When wearing Peridot, especially in rings or bracelets, one should exercise caution. It is best to remove Peridot jewelry before engaging in physical activities, heavy lifting, or household chores that could expose the stone to hard impacts or abrasive surfaces. While it can be worn daily, it is best suited for earrings or pendants, which are less likely to experience direct impact compared to rings.
Cleaning Instructions
Cleaning Peridot is a straightforward process, but it must be done gently to avoid damaging the stone or its setting. The sources recommend using a soft-bristle brush with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water.
The steps for cleaning are as follows: 1. Prepare a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild liquid detergent (no harsh chemicals or abrasives). 2. Submerge the jewelry in the solution for a few minutes to loosen dirt. 3. Gently scrub the stone and the setting with a soft-bristle brush (such as a baby toothbrush). Pay attention to the back of the stone and the crevices of the setting, where grime can accumulate. 4. Rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water to remove all soap residue. 5. Dry the jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are generally not recommended for Peridot. The vibrations of an ultrasonic cleaner can cause fractures in stones with existing inclusions or internal stress, and the high heat of a steam cleaner can damage the stone or loosen the setting. Chemical jewelry cleaners should also be avoided, as they may etch the surface of the gem or react with the metal setting.
Conclusion
Peridot is a gemstone of remarkable distinction, serving as the primary birthstone for those born on August 20th. Its singular, vibrant green color, derived from its intrinsic iron content, sets it apart in the world of colored gemstones. From its ancient origins on the Egyptian island of Zabargad to its discovery in comet dust, Peridot has captivated humanity with its connection to both the Earth's fiery interior and the cold expanse of space.
Historically revered as the "gem of the sun," it has been a symbol of protection, strength, and clarity for thousands of years. Its frequent confusion with emeralds in historical collections speaks to its beauty and value, while its distinct chemical composition and formation process make it a subject of great interest for gemologists. While it requires careful handling due to its moderate hardness, its durability makes it a viable option for jewelry when treated with respect.
Ultimately, Peridot offers more than just visual appeal; it carries a legacy of symbolism that includes friendship, passion, and good fortune. For the individual born in August, it represents the fullness of summer and the promise of renewal. Whether valued for its geological rarity, its rich history, or its metaphysical associations, Peridot remains a truly captivating and significant gemstone.