The month of August is uniquely represented by a trio of distinct birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Among these, peridot stands out as the primary modern birthstone, celebrated for its signature lime-green hue and a geological origin story unlike any other gem. While sardonyx holds the title of the traditional birthstone with a history spanning millennia, and spinel offers a brilliant alternative often mistaken for ruby, peridot has captured the modern imagination with its singular color and compelling lore. This article will delve into the rich history, unique formation, gemological characteristics, and symbolism of peridot, exploring why this "evening emerald" is a treasured gem for those born in August.
History and Lore
Peridot has a long and often misunderstood history, frequently confused with other prized green gemstones like emerald and topaz. The name "peridot" is widely believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This linguistic root points to the gem's long-standing value in Middle Eastern cultures.
One of the most significant historical mix-ups involving peridot occurred in medieval Europe. The German shrine of the Three Holy Kings in the Cologne Cathedral is adorned with 200 carats of gems that were believed for centuries to be emeralds. Modern analysis has definitively identified them as peridot, the August birthstone. This confusion was not isolated; some historians even speculate that Cleopatra's famed collection of emeralds may have actually consisted of peridot. The gem's resemblance to emerald is understandable, but peridot's color is uniquely its own, a result of its iron-based chemical composition.
The gem's most famous historical source was the island of Topazios (now Zabargad) in the Red Sea. This island was a major source of peridot for centuries, and its name is the origin of the word "topaz," adding another layer of historical confusion. Ancient Egyptians mined peridot on this island, and it was highly prized by them. Legend held that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess Pele. The ancient Egyptians also believed that setting peridot in gold would protect the wearer from nightmares and bring strength and happiness.
Peridot's journey to becoming a modern birthstone was formalized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), which designated it as the official birthstone for August. This list has been updated over the years, with spinel being added as a third option in 2016, but peridot remains the most recognized and popular choice for the month.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot's origin story is one of the most fascinating in the gemological world. Unlike many gems that crystallize in the Earth's crust, peridot is formed in the Earth's mantle, a layer of the planet deep beneath the surface. It is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a common mineral in the mantle.
What makes peridot truly exceptional is that it can be brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The gem can be found embedded in the hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth's mantle. This direct path from the mantle to the surface is rare for a gemstone. Even more extraordinary is the fact that peridot has also been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth from outer space, making it the only gem known to be created extraterrestrially.
The primary sources for peridot have historically been Egypt, particularly the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which was the source for many ancient peridots. Today, peridot is also mined in other locations, though the provided sources focus on its historical Egyptian origins and its unique formation process.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a unique set of physical characteristics that define its identity as a gemstone. Its most notable feature is its color, which is remarkably consistent. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in essentially only one color, though the specific shade can vary. The hue ranges from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green, with the intensity of the color directly related to the amount of iron present in its chemical structure. The most prized color is a rich, vibrant lime green.
The chemical composition of peridot is iron magnesium silicate (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. As a variety of the mineral olivine, it is a relatively hard gem, making it suitable for various types of jewelry. However, it does require care to prevent scratching and damage.
| Gemological Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Yellowish-green, olive-green, brownish-green |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7 |
| Source of Color | Iron content |
While the sources do not provide a comprehensive list of gemological data such as refractive index or specific gravity, they emphasize the consistent green coloration and the mineral's origin. The hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale indicates that peridot is durable enough for everyday wear in rings and pendants but should be protected from harder materials and sharp blows.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Across cultures and through the ages, peridot has been imbued with a wealth of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. The ancient Egyptians valued it not only for its beauty but also for its protective qualities. It was believed to ward off evil spirits and, when set in gold, to protect the wearer from nightmares. This association with protection and rest continues in modern crystal healing, where peridot is often linked to peace and tranquility.
The gem is also strongly associated with strength. The name "peridot" itself, derived from faridat, simply means "gem," but its lore is rich with ideas of power and resilience. In some traditions, it was believed to bring the wearer good luck, success, and prosperity. The "evening emerald" moniker highlights its luminous glow, which is said to bring light and positivity to its owner.
In contemporary metaphysical beliefs, peridot is seen as a stone of renewal and rejuvenation. Its vibrant green color, reminiscent of new growth and nature, is thought to open the heart to new experiences and promote emotional healing. For those born in August, peridot is said to embody the warmth, energy, and vitality of the summer month.
Care and Cleaning
Given its gemological properties, peridot requires specific care to maintain its brilliance and longevity. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is moderately hard but can be scratched by gems with higher hardness ratings, such as sapphire, ruby, diamond, and even topaz. It is advisable to store peridot jewelry separately in a soft cloth or lined jewelry box to prevent contact with harder stones.
Peridot can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally not recommended, as the gem can be sensitive to rapid temperature changes and vibrations, which could potentially cause fractures, especially if the stone has inclusions. After cleaning, it should be rinsed thoroughly to remove any soap residue and dried with a soft, lint-free cloth. Gentle care will ensure that the stone's beautiful green color remains vibrant for years to come.
Conclusion
Peridot is a gemstone of remarkable character, distinguished by its singular green color, its extraordinary origin deep within the Earth and even in outer space, and its rich historical tapestry. From the ancient Egyptian belief in its protective power to its modern status as the primary birthstone for August, peridot has consistently been a source of fascination and admiration. Its journey from the mantle to meteorites, and from ancient royal treasures to contemporary jewelry, makes it a truly unique gem. For individuals born in August, peridot offers a connection to the deep history of the Earth and the cosmos, all embodied in a brilliant, lime-green stone that symbolizes strength, luck, and peace.