For those born on August 22, the birthstone is Peridot, a gemstone that stands out for its vibrant green hue and rich historical significance. As one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color—green—Peridot has been cherished for centuries for both its aesthetic appeal and its symbolic meaning. Known as the “evening emerald” for its luminous beauty, Peridot is more than just a birthstone; it is a stone of serenity, renewal, and protection. This article explores the unique properties, cultural symbolism, geological origins, and practical care of Peridot, drawing on centuries of lore and modern gemological insight.
History and Lore
Peridot’s history is as rich and colorful as its appearance. This August birthstone has been valued in many ancient and medieval cultures. The word “peridot” is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning gem. Its use dates back over 3,500 years to the ancient Egyptians, who mined it on the island of Zabargad (also known as Topazios) in the Red Sea. The Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun” and believed it possessed protective qualities, guarding against nightmares and evil spirits. They wore it to ward off fear and bestow strength and happiness.
Throughout history, Peridot has often been confused with other gems. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a purported source of the name “topaz,” actually produced peridot. Consequently, many historical "topaz" specimens were actually peridot. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral is decorated with 200 carats of gems that were long believed to be emeralds but are, in fact, peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been comprised of peridot.
In medieval times, Peridot was used to create church ornaments and was worn by clergy. It was believed to have the power to dissolve enchantments and was used to make talismans. Its association with light continued, earning it the nickname "evening emerald" because its green color does not darken at night but shines brilliantly under artificial light.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is unique among gemstones because it is formed under extreme conditions deep within the Earth. It is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine, which is primarily composed of magnesium iron silicate. Unlike many other gems that require complex geological processes near the Earth's crust, peridot is born in the Earth’s mantle. It is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Large crystals have been found in the hardened lava that carried them from deep within the mantle.
Intriguingly, peridot is also found in pallasite meteorites—stony-iron meteorites that contain yellowish-green crystals of olivine. This extraterrestrial origin makes peridot one of the few gems found in space.
Historically, the primary source of peridot was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which was mined for thousands of years. Today, significant sources include Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma), and the United States (Arizona). The gem is also found in Australia, Brazil, China, Kenya, Mexico, Norway, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is prized for its distinct olive-green color, which is caused by the presence of iron in its chemical composition. Unlike other gemstones that display a range of colors, peridot occurs in only one color, though the shade can vary from yellowish-green to deep olive green depending on the iron content.
Key Gemological Properties:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine (Magnesium Iron Silicate) |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Olive green, yellowish-green, deep green |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 to 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 to 1.69 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 to 3.37 |
With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, Peridot is durable enough for everyday wear in jewelry, though it requires some care to prevent scratching. It has no cleavage, which makes it relatively resistant to breaking if struck, but it can be brittle. The gem typically has good clarity, with few inclusions, and large stones of high quality are available.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, growth, and renewal. Ancient cultures believed it was a gift from Mother Nature to help heal the heart and bring joy. It is known as a stone of compassion and is believed to have a calming effect on the wearer.
Metaphysically, Peridot is associated with the heart chakra and is thought to open the heart to new love and forgiveness. It is said to banish lethargy, apathy, and depression and to stimulate the mind and body. It is also associated with prosperity and good fortune, making it a popular stone for those seeking to attract wealth and success.
For those born under the sign of Leo (July 23 – August 22), Peridot is a particularly significant stone. It is believed to enhance the natural qualities of Leos—such as creativity, passion, and leadership—while helping to balance their intensity.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness and lack of cleavage, Peridot is relatively easy to care for, but it is not impervious to damage. It is best to protect it from scratches and sharp blows. When storing peridot jewelry, keep it separate from other gems to avoid scratching.
Cleaning Instructions: * Warm, Soapy Water: The safest method for cleaning Peridot is to use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone and rinse thoroughly. * Ultrasonic Cleaners: Generally, ultrasonic cleaners are safe for Peridot if the stone is not fractured. However, it is best to avoid them if the stone has been treated or has inclusions. * Steam Cleaners: Avoid using steam cleaners, as the sudden temperature changes can damage the gem. * Chemicals: Keep Peridot away from harsh chemicals, including acids and strong household cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
Conclusion
Peridot, the birthstone for August 22, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and profound significance. From its origins in the Earth's mantle and outer space to its rich history as the "gem of the sun," it captivates with its vibrant green color and compelling lore. Symbolizing renewal, protection, and prosperity, Peridot is more than just a beautiful accessory; it is a stone that resonates with the heart and spirit. Whether chosen for its aesthetic appeal or its metaphysical properties, Peridot remains a timeless treasure that continues to enchant gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry buyers alike.