The significance of peridot extends far beyond its role as a birthstone. It is a gem of singular color, existing almost exclusively in shades of green, ranging from yellowish-olive to bottle-green. Its geological origins are as unique as its appearance, often formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth's mantle and delivered to the surface by volcanic activity. This article will explore the rich history, unique geological formation, specific gemological properties, and the enduring symbolism of peridot. We will examine its journey from ancient Egyptian mines to modern jewelry collections, providing a comprehensive guide for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone captivated by this radiant "evening emerald."

History and Lore of the August Birthstone

The historical record of peridot stretches back to antiquity, with some of the earliest and most significant sources of the gem originating in Egypt. On the small island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, ancient Egyptians mined the gem for centuries. This location was the primary source of peridot for the ancient world, and the stones recovered there were highly prized. The Egyptians referred to the gem as the "gem of the sun," believing it possessed protective qualities against the terrors of the night. It was often set in gold and worn as an amulet to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen, is often cited in historical lore as having worn what was thought to be emeralds, but many scholars now believe these gems were, in fact, peridot, sourced from Zabargad.

The Romans also held peridot in high esteem and were keen observers of its unique optical properties. They noted that the gem’s vibrant green color did not change when viewed under artificial candlelight or torchlight, a characteristic that is rare among colored gemstones. This consistency of color led them to name the stone "evening emerald." This name highlights the gem's ability to maintain its brilliance and color in low-light settings, making it a favorite for evening adornment. The Romans used peridot extensively in jewelry and ornamental objects, including the famous large peridot gemstones that adorn the shrines in Germany's Cologne Cathedral, which were originally brought from Egypt by the Crusaders.

During the Middle Ages, peridot was primarily used by the Catholic Church. The gem was often set in church gold and used to decorate religious objects. Its use was, however, limited by the difficulty in distinguishing it from other green stones like emerald, which were more valuable. For centuries, large peridots were often misidentified as emeralds, a testament to its beauty and desirability. The gem's association with light continued through these eras, often being linked to the sun and its life-giving properties.

The inclusion of peridot as a modern August birthstone solidified its status in contemporary culture. While ancient traditions also listed sardonyx and spinel as August stones, peridot has emerged as the most recognized and celebrated. Its vibrant color and positive associations make it a popular choice for modern jewelry, from simple studs to elaborate statement pieces. The historical journey of peridot, from the ancient mines of Egypt to the crowns of European royalty and the modern jewelry box, underscores its timeless appeal and enduring legacy as a gem of the sun and the evening.

Geological Formation and Sources

Peridot possesses one of the most fascinating geological origins among all gemstones. Unlike many gems that form in the Earth's crust, peridot is one of the few that can be found in the Earth's mantle. Its primary host rock is peridotite, a dense, coarse-grained rock that makes up the majority of the Earth's upper mantle. The gem forms under high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth, and in some instances, it is brought to the surface through the force of volcanic activity. This process can transport peridot crystals from depths of up to 120 miles (200 kilometers) to the surface, where they can be collected in volcanic ash and lava flows.

This unique formation process means that peridot is not typically found in the same geological environments as many other gemstones. It is often discovered in igneous rocks and in alluvial deposits, which are sediments that have been transported and deposited by water. The gem's chemical composition is relatively simple, consisting of iron and magnesium silicate (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. The distinctive green color of peridot is due to the presence of iron within its crystal structure.

The primary sources of peridot today are located in several key regions around the world. One of the most significant sources is the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, USA. This location produces a large percentage of the world's supply of peridot, with gems ranging in color from light olive to a deep, rich green. The stones from this region are known for their high quality and are often used in commercial jewelry.

Other notable sources include:

• Pakistan: The high-altitude deposits in the Pakistan part of the Himalayas, particularly in the Kohistan region, produce some of the finest peridot crystals in the world. These gems are often found in large sizes and exhibit a vibrant, saturated green color.
• Myanmar (Burma): The Mogok region of Myanmar is another historically important source for high-quality peridot. The gems from this area are known for their exceptional clarity and color.
• China: China has emerged as a significant producer of peridot, with mines in the Xinjiang and Jilin provinces contributing to the global supply.
• Other Locations: Peridot has also been found and mined in Brazil, Australia, Norway, and on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which remains a source of historical and gemological interest.

The availability of peridot from diverse global locations ensures its continued presence in the market, with variations in color and size depending on the specific geological conditions of each mine.

Gemological Properties

Understanding the gemological properties of peridot is essential for appreciating its value and durability. As a member of the olivine mineral group, peridot has a specific set of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other green gems.

Chemical Composition and Crystal System: Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. It is an iron-rich silicate. Its crystal system is orthorhombic, meaning it has three mutually perpendicular axes of unequal length. This crystalline structure contributes to its physical properties.

Color: Peridot is unique among gemstones for appearing in only one color: green. Its hue can vary from yellowish-green to olive-green, with the most valued color being a pure, deep olive-green or bottle-green. The gem's color is determined by its iron content; a higher iron concentration results in a deeper green. Unlike many other colored gems, peridot's color does not change under artificial light, a property noted by the ancient Romans. This consistency makes it a reliable and desirable gem for all types of jewelry.

Hardness and Durability: On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7. While this makes it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and pendants, it is softer than stones like sapphire, ruby, and diamond (which rank 9 or 10). As a result, peridot can be susceptible to scratching and abrasion if handled carelessly. It is also important to note that peridot has no cleavage, which means it is not prone to breaking or chipping along specific planes, a positive attribute for its use in jewelry.

Clarity and Inclusions: Peridot is typically characterized by a high degree of clarity. It is classified as a "Type II" gemstone by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), meaning it is usually found with fewer and less noticeable inclusions compared to Type III gems like emeralds. However, it is not uncommon to find small, included needles, called "lily pads," or tiny gas-filled cavities within the crystal. These inclusions are often accepted as part of the stone's character and do not typically diminish its beauty unless they are large enough to affect the gem's transparency or stability.

Luster and Refractive Index: Peridot exhibits a vitreous (glass-like) luster when cut and polished. Its refractive index, which measures how much light bends as it passes through the stone, ranges from approximately 1.65 to 1.69. This gives the gem its characteristic brilliance and sparkle.

The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of peridot:

These properties define peridot as a beautiful and resilient gem, well-suited for a wide range of jewelry applications, though it requires proper care to maintain its polished beauty over time.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Throughout history, peridot has been imbued with a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. Its vibrant green color, reminiscent of new growth and spring, has led many cultures to associate it with positive energy, renewal, and prosperity. These beliefs have contributed to its enduring popularity as both a personal adornment and a meaningful gift.

One of the most prominent symbolic associations of peridot is with the sun. Ancient Egyptians revered the gem as the "gem of the sun," believing it held the power of the sun god, Ra. They thought that peridot could protect the wearer from dark magic and evil spirits, especially at night. This protective quality was a central part of its lore, and it was often set in gold to enhance its power. The Roman name, "evening emerald," further reinforces this connection to light, suggesting that the gem could provide clarity and protection during the twilight hours.

In addition to its protective powers, peridot is widely regarded as a stone of good fortune and prosperity. It is believed to attract wealth, success, and abundance to the wearer. This association with prosperity makes it a popular choice for gifts marking business milestones, promotions, or new ventures. Its connection to new beginnings also makes it a fitting symbol for birthdays and anniversaries, representing the start of a new year of life or a new chapter in a relationship.

Metaphysically, peridot is often referred to as the "stone of compassion." It is believed to have a calming effect, bringing peace and happiness to the wearer. Many modern crystal healers and believers in gemstone lore suggest that peridot can heal emotional wounds, alleviate stress, and foster a sense of inner strength and confidence. Its uplifting energy is said to dispel negativity, anger, and jealousy, replacing it with optimism and joy. For this reason, it is often recommended for individuals seeking to overcome feelings of resentment or envy.

The gem is also linked to the heart chakra in certain metaphysical traditions. It is thought to open and cleanse the heart, allowing for the free flow of love and emotional healing. By balancing the heart chakra, peridot is believed to help its wearer give and receive love more freely, strengthening relationships and fostering a deeper connection with others.

Whether viewed through the lens of ancient history or modern metaphysical practice, peridot is consistently associated with positive attributes. Its symbolism of protection, prosperity, and compassion makes it a powerful and meaningful gemstone, valued not only for its physical beauty but also for the positive energy and intentions it is believed to embody.

Care and Cleaning

Given its specific gemological properties, peridot requires careful handling and proper cleaning techniques to preserve its beauty and integrity. While it is durable enough for most types of jewelry, its moderate hardness and sensitivity to certain conditions mean that owners should be aware of best practices for its care.

As peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, it is harder than many common materials like glass and steel but softer than many other popular gemstones like sapphire, ruby, and diamond. This means it can be scratched by these harder stones if stored together in a jewelry box without proper separation. To avoid this, it is best to store peridot jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or in a separate compartment of a jewelry box.

When it comes to cleaning, peridot is relatively straightforward but requires avoiding harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. The safest method for cleaning peridot jewelry is to use warm water, a mild soap (such as dish soap), and a soft brush (like a baby toothbrush or a soft makeup brush). Gently scrub the gemstone and its setting to remove any dirt or oils that may have accumulated. After cleaning, rinse it thoroughly with clean, warm water and pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

It is crucial to avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals. Substances like bleach, chlorine (found in swimming pools), and strong detergents can damage the stone's surface and erode any polish. It is also advisable to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in activities such as swimming, cleaning with harsh chemicals, or applying lotions and perfumes, as these can leave a film on the gem and dull its luster.

Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners should generally be avoided for peridot. The vibrations from an ultrasonic cleaner can potentially cause damage if the stone has any small fractures or inclusions. Similarly, the high heat and pressure from a steam cleaner can be detrimental to the gem's stability. If a piece of peridot jewelry has a delicate setting or other more fragile stones, professional cleaning by a reputable jeweler is the recommended option.

By following these simple care instructions, a peridot gemstone can maintain its brilliant green sparkle and smooth polish for many years, allowing its owner to enjoy its beauty and symbolic meaning as a lasting treasure.

Conclusion

Peridot stands as a gemstone of remarkable character, distinguished by its single-hued green palette and a geological history that connects it to the very mantle of the Earth. As the principal birthstone for August, it carries with it a legacy that spans from the ancient mines of Egypt, where it was known as the "gem of the sun," to the modern jewelry collections that celebrate its "evening emerald" glow. Its unique ability to retain its color under any light source sets it apart and has been a source of fascination for centuries.

The gem's value is defined not only by its historical significance and symbolic associations with good fortune and protection but also by its distinct physical properties. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, a vitreous luster, and a characteristic clarity, peridot is a beautiful and resilient stone. However, its care requires an understanding of its properties, favoring gentle cleaning and protection from harsh chemicals and harder materials. From its formation in the deep Earth to its setting in fine jewelry, peridot represents a journey of light and resilience. It remains a cherished gem for those born in August and for all who are drawn to its vibrant, life-affirming green color.

Sources

1. Tejas Beads
2. Baublebar
3. Jesse James Beads
4. James Avery
5. Alexandani