For individuals born on August 20th, the designated birthstone is Peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its distinctive olive-green hue and rich historical lineage. Unlike many gemstones that owe their color to trace impurities, peridot’s hue is an intrinsic property of its chemical composition. As a member of the olivine mineral family, this gem has been coveted since antiquity, earning titles such as the "gem of the sun" for its ability to shine even under artificial light.
The significance of peridot extends beyond its aesthetic appeal; it is a stone deeply woven into the fabric of ancient history, geological wonder, and metaphysical lore. For those born on this specific date, peridot serves as a symbol of strength, renewal, and protection. This article explores the geological formation, historical origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of peridot, providing a comprehensive guide to one of the most captivating gems in the birthstone tradition.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is as vibrant as the gem itself, dating back thousands of years. Its story begins in ancient Egypt, where the stone was first mined on the island of Zabargad (now known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea around 1500 B.C. The Egyptians held this gem in the highest regard, referring to it as the "gem of the sun." They believed that peridot possessed the power of the sun god, Ra, and that it could harness solar energy to protect the wearer from the terrors of the night. Historical accounts suggest that the ancient Egyptians mined the gem on a large scale, wearing it extensively as a protective talisman against evil spirits and dark magic.
The allure of peridot was not limited to the Nile Valley. Throughout history, the gem has been associated with friendship, passion, and renewal. Its warm, golden-green color was thought to foster goodwill and ease the mind of negative emotions. In various cultures, peridot was believed to be a stone of healing, capable of dispelling the "green-eyed monster" of jealousy and promoting a sense of contentment and peace.
In the context of modern birthstone lists, peridot holds the primary position for the month of August. While some historical traditions also listed Sardonyx as an alternative, peridot has emerged as the definitive stone for those born in late summer, particularly on August 20th. Its enduring legacy as a gem of the sun makes it a fitting representation for the waning days of summer, capturing the warmth and vitality of the season.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is unique in the geological world as it is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color. While the shade can range from yellowish-green to olive and brownish-green depending on the iron content within its chemical structure, it never appears in other hues. This gem belongs to the olivine mineral family, specifically magnesium iron silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4.
Unlike many gems that crystallize in the Earth's crust, peridot is formed deep within the Earth's mantle. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The gem is primarily found in volcanic rocks and ultramafic igneous rocks. This deep-earth origin explains why peridot crystals are often found in solidified lava and in fragments carried to the surface by volcanoes.
While the ancient Egyptians mined peridot from the Red Sea island of Zabargad, modern sources of the gem are found in various locations around the world. Significant deposits have been discovered in the United States (Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii), Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma), and Australia. The gem's formation requires specific high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, making it a geological rarity. Its presence in volcanic rock provides a direct link to the powerful, transformative forces of the Earth, reinforcing its symbolic association with strength and renewal.
Gemological Properties
For gemologists and jewelry enthusiasts, peridot presents a fascinating study in physical properties. Its characteristics dictate how it should be cut, set, and cared for. The following table summarizes the key gemological data for peridot:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)2SiO4 |
| Color | Olive green, yellowish-green, brownish-green |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 to 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 – 1.69 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
Hardness and Durability
Peridot registers between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. While this makes it durable enough for everyday wear in jewelry such as rings and pendants, it is softer than stones like sapphire, ruby, or diamond. Consequently, peridot is susceptible to scratching if knocked against hard surfaces. It also possesses poor toughness and can be subject to cleavage, meaning it can break along certain planes if struck with significant force.
Color and Cut
The color of peridot is its most defining feature. The gem’s intrinsic green hue is caused by the presence of iron in its crystal lattice. Unlike emeralds, which often contain inclusions, peridot is typically found with fewer impurities, though "lily pad" inclusions (finger-like fluid inclusions) are a known characteristic. Gem cutters favor the oval, cushion, and emerald cuts for peridot to maximize the stone's brilliance and color saturation.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is laden with symbolism that resonates deeply with those born under the sign of Leo, which governs the date of August 20th. It is widely regarded as a stone of strength, renewal, and protection.
The Stone of the Sun
As the "gem of the sun," peridot is believed to carry the energy of light and warmth. It is said to connect the wearer to nature and the earth, promoting a sense of grounding and stability. In many spiritual traditions, the color green is associated with the heart chakra, symbolizing love, compassion, and emotional balance. For those born on August 20th, the stone’s color represents a connection to both the physical and spiritual worlds, reminding them to remain grounded while pursuing their goals.
Emotional Healing and Prosperity
Metaphysical beliefs suggest that peridot can dispel negative emotions and foster positive energy. It is often associated with attracting good fortune, prosperity, and abundance. Some sources suggest that wearing peridot can help heal emotional wounds and alleviate feelings of jealousy or resentment. Instead, it encourages the wearer to embrace openness, love, and positivity. For the August 20th native, peridot serves as a constant reminder of their inner strength and their ability to attract good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Given its chemical composition and physical properties, peridot requires specific care to maintain its luster and integrity.
Cleaning Methods
Because peridot ranks a 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is relatively durable but should be cleaned with care. It is safe to clean the gemstone using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are generally not recommended for peridot, especially if the stone has been treated or has inclusions, as the vibrations or heat could potentially cause damage.
Storage and Wear
To prevent scratching, peridot jewelry should be stored separately from harder gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. It is advisable to keep peridot in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box. When wearing peridot, it is best to put it on after applying cosmetics, hairspray, and perfumes, as chemicals can dull the stone's surface over time. Additionally, due to its poor toughness, peridot jewelry should be removed before engaging in heavy physical activities or manual labor to avoid impact damage.
Conclusion
The birthstone for August 20th, peridot, is a gemstone of extraordinary beauty and profound significance. From its ancient origins in the volcanic soils of Egypt to its modern status as a beloved gem of the summer month, peridot has captivated civilizations for centuries. Its unique formation deep within the Earth's mantle and its consistent, vibrant green color make it a subject of fascination for gemologists and collectors alike.
For the individual born on August 20th, peridot offers more than just a visual delight; it serves as a symbol of strength, a beacon of renewal, and a talisman of protection. Whether set in a ring, pendant, or bracelet, this "gem of the sun" carries the warmth of the sun and the vitality of nature. By understanding the history, properties, and care of peridot, one can fully appreciate the enduring legacy and radiant energy of this remarkable August birthstone.