Peridot, with its distinctive olive-green hue, stands as one of the most fascinating gemstones in the mineral kingdom. As the primary modern birthstone for the month of August, it holds a unique position among its peers. Unlike many gems whose color is derived from trace impurities, peridot’s color is an intrinsic property of its chemical composition. This gem, a variety of the mineral olivine, has been treasured since antiquity, often confused with emeralds, and holds a legendary origin that reaches back to the depths of the Earth and even the cosmos. Its journey through history is marked by reverence, mistaken identity, and a consistent appeal rooted in its warm, inviting green color. This article explores the geological formation, gemological properties, historical lore, and market value of peridot, providing a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and those born in the eighth month of the year.
The significance of peridot extends beyond its role as a modern birthstone. Historical sources reveal a deep-seated cultural reverence for the stone, particularly in Ancient Egypt where it was known as "the gem of the sun." Its formation under extreme conditions and its discovery in various global locations, from Pakistan to Arizona, contribute to its mystique. Understanding peridot requires an appreciation for its unique place in the silicate mineral group, its specific physical characteristics, and the beliefs that have been attached to it for millennia. As we delve into its properties and past, we uncover why this gem continues to be a celebrated choice for jewelry and a subject of enduring geological interest.
Historical Significance and Lore
The history of peridot is rich and spans multiple civilizations, each attributing unique powers and meanings to the stone. Its most prominent historical role was in Ancient Egypt, where it was not only a prized gem but also a sacred object. The Egyptians referred to peridot as "the gem of the sun" and believed it offered protection against evil spirits and nightmares. This association with the sun was not merely metaphorical; peridot was mined on the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, a location that was notoriously difficult to access and was the source of the finest peridot for centuries. The ancient Egyptians were so skilled in identifying and working with this gem that many of the Cleopatra’s emerald collection are now believed by gemologists to have actually been peridot.
The lore surrounding peridot is not limited to Egypt. In Hawaiian tradition, the gem holds a celestial connection. Legend states that peridot stones are the tears of the goddess Pele, the deity of volcanoes and fire. This volcanic origin story aligns with the gem’s geological formation, which often occurs in igneous rocks. The stone’s association with nature deities and the sun in these ancient cultures underscores its perceived connection to powerful, life-giving forces.
Etymologically, the name "peridot" has roots that reinforce its identity as a gemstone. The word descends from the Medieval Latin "peridotus," a term that may have referred to peridot itself or to other gems of a similar green color. Another proposed origin is the Arabic word "faridat," which simply means "gemstone." This linguistic history, combined with its ancient use, establishes peridot as a gem with a long and continuous presence in human culture. Its journey to becoming a recognized August birthstone is a more modern development, but one that is firmly rooted in this extensive historical background.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
Peridot is unique in its origin story, as it is one of the few gemstones that are found not only in the Earth's crust but also in extraterrestrial environments. As a transparent gem variety of the silicate mineral group olivine, peridot forms deep within the Earth's mantle. Under extreme heat and pressure, olivine crystallizes and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. This igneous origin explains why significant peridot deposits are often found in areas with a history of volcanic activity.
The primary historical source of peridot was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. For over 3,500 years, this island was the only known source of high-quality peridot, and gems mined there were used in medieval churches and royal jewelry across Europe. Today, however, the most significant sources of peridot are found in Pakistan, specifically in the Kashmir region, which is renowned for producing large, high-quality crystals with a vibrant, saturated green color. Other notable sources include Myanmar (Burma), China, Vietnam, and the United States, with Arizona being a notable domestic source for smaller, commercial-grade stones.
The discovery of peridot in pallasites—a type of meteorite that contains olivine crystals—provides a cosmic dimension to its formation. These "space peridots" are billions of years old and are remnants of the early solar system. While not typically used for gemstones due to their inclusion in the meteorite matrix, their existence confirms that the conditions for forming olivine occur on a planetary scale beyond Earth. This dual terrestrial and extraterrestrial origin makes peridot a truly otherworldly gem.
Gemological Properties
Understanding peridot’s gemological properties is key to appreciating its value and durability. It is a member of the forsterite-fayalite series of olivine, with the gem-quality variety being rich in magnesium, giving it its characteristic green color.
Key Gemological Properties of Peridot: * Chemical Composition: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ * Crystal System: Orthorhombic * Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6.5 - 7 * Luster: Vitreous (glass-like) * Refractive Index: 1.65 - 1.69 * Double Refraction: 0.036 (high) * Specific Gravity: 3.34
A defining characteristic of peridot is its high double refraction. When viewed through a loupe, a skilled gemologist can see doubling of the back facets of the stone, which helps in its identification. This property, combined with its single, consistent color range, makes it relatively easy to distinguish from other green gems like emerald or tourmaline.
Peridot’s hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale makes it a moderately durable gemstone, suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. However, it is softer than sapphire or ruby (both at 9) and can be susceptible to scratching if worn daily in rings or bracelets without proper care. It has no cleavage, which is an advantage, but it can be brittle and may break if subjected to a hard blow.
Color and Clarity
The color of peridot is its most celebrated feature. It ranges from light green, yellowish-green, to brownish-green. The most prized color is a rich, vibrant olive green with no hints of brown or yellow. Unlike many other colored gemstones, peridot’s color does not vary significantly with different lighting conditions; it appears consistent whether viewed under natural daylight or incandescent light. This consistent color is a significant advantage for consumers.
In terms of clarity, peridot is typically "eye-clean," meaning it lacks visible inclusions to the naked eye. Some specimens may contain small, dark specks of mineral inclusions, often described as "lily pads" due to their shape. While these inclusions do not typically detract from the stone's beauty, large, clean stones are more valued.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical properties, peridot is steeped in symbolism and metaphysical beliefs that have been passed down through generations. Its association with the sun in ancient Egypt has led to its modern interpretation as a stone of light, positivity, and abundance. It is often called the "evening emerald" because its green color is said to glow even under artificial light.
Metaphysically, peridot is believed to possess a range of healing and protective properties. It is associated with the heart chakra and is thought to promote emotional balance, compassion, and forgiveness. Many believe it can heal stress and anger, replacing them with a sense of peace and well-being. Its connection to nature deities in Hawaiian lore also lends it an aura of grounding and connection to the natural world.
In contemporary crystal healing practices, peridot is used to: * Attract Wealth and Prosperity: It is considered a stone of abundance and good fortune. * Enhance Confidence and Assertiveness: It is believed to help individuals overcome shyness and express themselves more clearly. * Protect Against Negativity: Building on its ancient Egyptian lore, it is still seen as a protective talisman against psychic attacks and negative energies.
These beliefs, while not scientifically proven, contribute to the gem’s enduring popularity and make it a meaningful choice for personal jewelry.
Market Value and Commercial Appeal
Peridot offers an attractive value proposition in the gemstone market. While it is not as expensive as the "big three" (ruby, sapphire, and emerald), high-quality peridot can command significant prices, especially in larger sizes.
The price of peridot is primarily determined by its color, clarity, and size. As noted in gemological guides, the most desirable color—a strong, vibrant green—is often found in stones over 10 carats. Smaller stones may exhibit a green color with a slight yellow tint, which is generally less valuable. The market also reflects the stone's availability; while peridot is not considered rare overall, large stones (5 carats and above) with top-tier color and clarity are scarce and therefore command premium prices.
Price ranges can vary dramatically. For a 1-carat stone, prices can span from as low as $5 for a commercial-grade specimen to over $600 for a top-quality gem. A 1-carat peridot of good quality typically falls in the $50 to $500 range. This wide spectrum makes peridot accessible to a broad audience, from those seeking an affordable piece of birthstone jewelry to serious collectors looking for exceptional specimens.
Its durability and stunning color make it a popular choice for all types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is often set in yellow gold to complement its warm green tones, but it also pairs beautifully with white gold and platinum for a more modern look. Its appeal is further enhanced by the fact that it is one of the few gems that appears in only one color, making it easily recognizable and a consistent favorite.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of peridot jewelry requires understanding its physical properties and handling it with appropriate care. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, it is durable enough for everyday wear but is softer than many other popular gems. To prevent scratching, it is best to store peridot jewelry separately from other stones, ideally in a soft cloth or a lined jewelry box.
Cleaning peridot is straightforward but requires caution. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are generally not recommended, as the heat and vibrations can cause fractures in stones that have inclusions or have been subjected to previous impacts. After cleaning, rinse the jewelry thoroughly to remove any soap residue and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. By following these simple care instructions, a peridot piece can retain its luster and beauty for many years.
Conclusion
Peridot is a gemstone of remarkable character, bridging the gap between ancient history and modern appeal. Its identity is defined by its unique genesis, its unwavering olive-green color, and a legacy of lore that connects it to the sun and the stars. As the primary modern birthstone for August, it offers those born in that month a gem that is both beautiful and rich in meaning. From the volcanic tears of a Hawaiian goddess to the treasures of Egyptian pharaohs, peridot’s story is one of enduring fascination. Its combination of relative affordability, good durability, and a captivating single-shade-of-green color ensures its continued popularity among gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry buyers worldwide. Whether valued for its geological rarity or its symbolic properties, peridot remains a luminous and celebrated member of the gemstone family.