For those born on August 19th, the primary birthstone is peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its singular, vibrant green hue. Unlike many other gemstones that occur in a rainbow of colors, peridot is prized almost exclusively for its shades of green, ranging from bright yellow-green to olive and brownish-green. This remarkable gem, the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow variety of the mineral olivine, has a history that stretches back millennia, intertwining with ancient civilizations, royal collections, and geological wonders from deep within the Earth and beyond. While August officially boasts three birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—peridot stands out for its unique formation, storied past, and enduring appeal in modern jewelry.
The significance of peridot extends far beyond its aesthetic beauty. It is a stone steeped in lore, historically associated with protection, prosperity, and the power of the sun. From the deserts of ancient Egypt to the cathedrals of medieval Europe, peridot has been mistaken for emeralds and topaz, yet its true identity has been clarified through modern gemology. Today, it continues to captivate collectors and jewelry enthusiasts with its brilliant luster and compelling narrative. This article will explore the rich history and lore of peridot, its fascinating geological origins, its precise gemological properties, its cultural symbolism, and practical advice for its care, providing a comprehensive guide to this exceptional August birthstone.
History and Lore
Peridot’s history is as deep and layered as the gem itself, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations. The word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic faridat, meaning “gem,” a testament to its long-standing value in Middle Eastern cultures. One of the most significant historical sources of peridot was the island of Topazios in the Red Sea, which was actually a major source of peridot, not topaz as its name might suggest. This ancient source contributed to centuries of confusion, where peridot was frequently mistaken for other green gemstones.
In ancient Egypt, peridot was highly revered and known as the “gem of the sun.” It was believed to possess protective powers, warding off evil spirits and nightmares. The Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad (also known as Topazios) as early as the 4th century B.C. The gem was so valued that it was used to adorn the jewelry of pharaohs and was thought to bring the wearer happiness and strength. This association with sunlight and protection has persisted through various cultures, embedding peridot with a legacy of positive energy and spiritual safeguarding.
The confusion between peridot and other gemstones continued well into the medieval and Renaissance periods. Perhaps the most famous example is the collection of gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. For centuries, these 200-carat gems were believed to be emeralds, but modern gemological analysis has confirmed they are, in fact, peridot. This misidentification highlights peridot’s visual similarity to emerald, a green gemstone of immense prestige. Furthermore, some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually contained peridot, adding a layer of intrigue to the gem’s royal connections. Through these historical accounts, peridot emerges not just as a beautiful stone, but as a gem with a complex identity, often overshadowed by its more famous green counterparts but cherished by those who recognized its unique brilliance.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of peridot are among the most extraordinary in the gemstone world. Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, which is a common component of the Earth’s mantle. Its formation occurs under extreme conditions, making it a subject of great interest to geologists and gemologists alike. Unlike many gemstones that crystallize in the Earth’s crust, peridot can be brought to the surface through volcanic activity. It is found in hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle, offering a direct sample from the planet’s interior.
Even more remarkable is the fact that peridot has also been found in meteorites that have traveled from outer space. This extraterrestrial occurrence makes peridot one of the few gems that can be considered a visitor from beyond our world, a tangible piece of cosmic history. The presence of peridot in both terrestrial volcanic rocks and meteorites underscores its unique and widespread formation process.
In terms of commercial mining, peridot is sourced from several key locations around the globe. Historically, the most significant source was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which provided peridot to the ancient world. Today, major sources include Pakistan, which is known for producing large, high-quality crystals; Arizona in the United States, where peridot is found in volcanic rock; and Myanmar (Burma). Other notable sources include China, Norway, and the island of St. John in the Hawaiian archipelago, which is known for its peridot-bearing volcanic sands. The variety of sources ensures a steady supply of this gem, though large, clean crystals of gem-quality peridot remain highly valued.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a distinct set of gemological properties that define its identity and influence its use in jewelry. Its most defining characteristic is its color, which ranges from yellow-green to greenish-yellow, with olive and brownish-green shades also being common. The presence of iron within its chemical structure is responsible for this green hue, with the intensity of the color varying based on the iron content. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot does not typically undergo heat treatment to enhance its color, making its natural shade a key point of its value.
Chemically, peridot is a magnesium iron silicate, with the formula (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. It belongs to the olivine group of minerals. On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot rates between 6.5 and 7, making it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants. However, its hardness is moderate compared to gems like sapphire or diamond, so it requires some care to avoid scratches and abrasions. Peridot has no cleavage, which means it does not have a natural tendency to split along planes, but it has a conchoidal fracture. This combination of properties makes it a sturdy gem for setting, though it is not as tough as some other stones.
The luster of peridot is vitreous, or glass-like, and it is often highly brilliant when cut well. Its refractive index and specific gravity are also characteristic of the olivine family. The gem’s clarity can vary, with some specimens containing inclusions that are considered part of its character. Large, clean crystals of peridot are particularly prized. The following table summarizes key gemological properties of peridot based on the provided sources.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color Range | Yellow-green to greenish-yellow, olive, brownish-green |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Primary Sources | Pakistan, Arizona (USA), Myanmar, China, Norway, Red Sea islands |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with peridot are as vibrant as its color. Across cultures and centuries, this gem has been attributed with a range of powers, from physical protection to emotional healing. In ancient Egypt, as previously noted, it was the “gem of the sun,” believed to protect the wearer from evil spirits and to bring the blessings of the sun god. This association with light and protection has been a consistent thread throughout its history.
In medieval times, peridot was thought to protect against nightmares and to bring the wearer happiness and strength. It was considered a stone of friendship, believed to foster positive relationships and harmony between people. The gem’s green color is often linked to growth, vitality, and balance, making it a symbol of renewal and the energy of life. This connection to nature and vitality resonates with its formation in the Earth’s mantle and its presence in volcanic landscapes.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute peridot with healing properties. It is often associated with the heart chakra, believed to promote emotional openness, compassion, and forgiveness. Some believe it can alleviate stress, anger, and jealousy, replacing negative emotions with a sense of peace and well-being. As a birthstone for August, peridot is also seen as a stone of prosperity and happiness, aligning with the warm, energetic spirit of the summer month. While these beliefs are part of cultural and spiritual traditions rather than scientific gemology, they contribute to the gem’s enduring appeal and personal significance for many wearers.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of peridot jewelry. Given its moderate hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is durable enough for everyday wear but is susceptible to scratches and abrasions if not handled with care. It is best to store peridot jewelry separately from other gemstones and metals to prevent damage from harder materials like diamonds or sapphires.
Cleaning peridot is straightforward but should be done gently. The safest method is to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, such as a toothbrush with soft bristles. After gently scrubbing the gemstone, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone or its setting. Peridot should also be protected from sudden temperature changes, which could cause fractures.
When wearing peridot jewelry, it is advisable to remove it before engaging in activities that could expose it to hard impacts or abrasive surfaces, such as gardening, sports, or heavy manual work. By following these simple care guidelines, the vibrant green hue and brilliant luster of peridot can be preserved for generations, allowing it to continue its legacy as a cherished gemstone.
Conclusion
Peridot, the primary birthstone for those born on August 19th, is a gemstone of remarkable character and depth. Its journey from the fiery depths of the Earth’s mantle and the cold expanse of space to the adornment of ancient pharaohs and medieval shrines is a testament to its unique geological and historical significance. With its distinctive green color, a single-hue wonder in the gem world, peridot has been a source of fascination, often mistaken for emeralds but ultimately celebrated for its own brilliant identity.
The gem’s properties—a hardness of 6.5 to 7, a chemical composition of magnesium iron silicate, and sources spanning from Pakistan to Arizona—make it a durable and accessible choice for jewelry. Its symbolism, rooted in ancient beliefs of protection, friendship, and prosperity, adds a layer of meaning that resonates with wearers today. Whether chosen for its historical lore, its metaphysical associations, or simply its captivating beauty, peridot remains a gemstone of enduring charm. For the August-born, it is more than a birthstone; it is a symbol of vitality, renewal, and the vibrant energy of summer, a green light that has captivated humanity for millennia.