For individuals born on August 21st, the primary birthstone is Peridot, a gemstone distinguished by its unique olive-green hue and remarkable geological origins. As one of three birthstones for August—alongside Spinel and Sardonyx—Peridot stands out for its formation under extreme conditions, its historical confusion with other precious gems like emeralds, and its rich tapestry of symbolism. Unlike many gemstones that derive their color from trace impurities, Peridot’s characteristic yellowish-green to greenish-yellow coloration is an intrinsic part of its chemical structure, resulting from the presence of iron within the mineral olivine. This article provides a comprehensive examination of Peridot, exploring its geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and the metaphysical beliefs that have cemented its status as a gemstone of compassion and renewal.
History and Lore
The history of Peridot is as deep and complex as the earth’s mantle from which it originates. Throughout history, this August birthstone has been frequently confused with other gems, most notably topaz and emerald. This confusion stems from the gem’s similar coloration to emerald and the misleading naming of its ancient sources. For instance, the Red Sea island of Topazios, which actually produced Peridot, is the purported source of the name "topaz." The confusion with emerald is perhaps even more famous; the 200-carat gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were long believed to be emeralds but were later identified as Peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been comprised of Peridot.
The etymology of the name "Peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." This August birthstone was highly valued in many ancient and medieval cultures. In ancient Egypt, Peridot was known as "the gem of the sun," linked to nature deities and believed to have been a favorite of the Pharaohs. The Romans also held the stone in high regard, using it to protect against enchantment and "illusions."
During the Middle Ages, Peridots were worn for their perceived ability to provide foresight and inspiration. The gemstone's reputation as a protective talisman continued into the battlefields of ancient Greece and Rome, where it was often worn to harness courage and bravery. The cultural significance of Peridot has extended into modern times as well. In 2005, the Stardust space probe returned from a comet mission carrying dust that contained Peridot, confirming that the gemstone is extraterrestrial in nature and can be found in meteorites that travel from outer space. Additionally, Peridot is traditionally the gemstone given to celebrate the 16th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot possesses a geological pedigree that is unique among gemstones. It is the yellowish green to greenish yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate mineral that forms under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle. While many gemstones are found in igneous or metamorphic rocks, Peridot is unique in that it can be found in hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth to the surface. This volcanic activity is a primary mechanism for bringing the gem within reach of human miners.
The formation of Peridot is not limited to terrestrial environments. As noted, Peridot has also been identified in meteorites, confirming its presence in outer space. This extraterrestrial origin adds a layer of mystique and scientific interest to the gemstone.
Regarding commercial mining sources, the chunks do not specify specific modern mining locations or countries. However, the historical references to the Red Sea island of Topazios indicate that the gem has been sourced in the Middle East region historically. The gem's formation in the Earth's mantle suggests that it is brought to the surface via volcanic activity, which is the primary method of accessibility for mining operations.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and optical properties of Peridot is essential for gemologists, jewelers, and collectors. Peridot is defined by its distinct color, chemical composition, and durability, though it requires specific care due to its physical characteristics.
Color and Composition
The defining characteristic of Peridot is its color, which ranges from a pale yellow-green to a deep, rich green. Unlike many other gemstones, Peridot does not occur in a wide range of colors; its green hue is the only one found in nature. The specific coloration is due to the presence of iron within its chemical structure. The concentration of iron directly impacts the intensity of the green tone; the more iron present, the deeper the green. This relationship between iron content and color intensity is a key factor in determining the value and desirability of Peridot specimens. While vibrant green stones are the most favored, these gems are usually found in sizes of 10+ carats. In smaller sizes, the best color is typically green with a slight yellow tint.
Hardness and Durability
Peridot has a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7.0. While durable enough for most jewelry applications, it is softer than many other popular gemstones, such as sapphire or diamond. Consequently, those wearing Peridot daily should exercise caution to avoid damaging the gem. It is susceptible to scratching if stored improperly or subjected to hard impacts.
Optical Characteristics
Peridot is a transparent gemstone with a glassy luster. It exhibits high double refraction, a property where a single ray of light entering the crystal splits into two rays. This optical characteristic is a key identifier for gemologists distinguishing Peridot from other green stones.
Value and Rarity
While Peridot is not considered rare in general, large pure green stones are scarce. The market value varies significantly based on quality and size. Prices for a 1-carat Peridot can range from $5 to $600. Good quality specimens typically fall between $50 and $500, while top-quality gems command higher prices. The scarcity of large, vibrant green stones drives the value of high-carat Peridots upward.
Comparative Gemological Data
| Property | Peridot (Olivine) | Spinel | Sardonyx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Group | Silicate (Olivine) | Oxide | Chalcedony / Quartz |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7.0 | 8.0 | 6.5 - 7.0 |
| Luster | Glassy | Vitreous | Waxy to Vitreous |
| Color Range | Yellowish-green to Greenish-yellow | All colors of the rainbow | Reddish-white banded appearance |
| Chemical Basis | Iron content | Magnesium Aluminum Oxide | Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot is rich in symbolism, often associated with light, positivity, and compassion. It is frequently referred to as the "stone of compassion." Its association with the heart chakra links it to unconditional love, healing, and emotional balance.
One of the central symbolic elements of Peridot is its connection to dispelling negative emotions. It is believed to banish jealousy, resentment, and spite, replacing them with confidence, joy, and abundance. This association with positivity mirrors the gemstone’s natural color, which embodies the lush, rejuvenating aspects of nature.
In Hawaiian legend, Peridot stones are considered the tears of the goddess Pele, adding a mythological dimension to its lore. The gem's reputation for protection against negative energy and "illusions" further enhances its status as a talisman for emotional and spiritual well-being. For those born on August 21st, Peridot is said to bring luck, peace, and success to the wearer.
Care and Cleaning
Given its physical properties, Peridot requires specific care to maintain its brilliance and structural integrity. As noted, the gem has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.0, making it softer than many other jewelry stones.
Cleaning: To clean Peridot, one should use a soft-bristle brush with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners are generally not recommended, as the gem's inclusions and relative softness make it susceptible to damage from thermal shock and vibration.
Storage: Proper storage is crucial to prevent scratching. Peridot should be kept away from harder stones and jewelry pieces. It is advisable to store Peridot jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box compartment separate from other gems.
Durability Concerns: Because of its cleavage characteristics (though not explicitly detailed in the sources, the general knowledge of olivine suggests it has some susceptibility to breakage along cleavage planes), Peridot should be protected from sharp blows and extreme temperature changes, which could cause fracturing.
Other August Birthstones
While Peridot is the primary birthstone for August 21st, it is important to acknowledge the two other stones recognized for this month: Spinel and Sardonyx.
Spinel is the modern addition to the August birthstone list. It was underappreciated for centuries, often mistaken for ruby due to its red varieties. Spinel is an oxide mineral with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it significantly harder and more durable than Peridot. It occurs in a vast array of colors, unlike Peridot’s singular green hue.
Sardonyx is the original August birthstone, with a history dating back over 4,000 years. It is a variety of chalcedony (quartz) characterized by alternating layers of reddish-brown sard and white onyx, creating a banded appearance. Historically, it was viewed as a stone of protection, worn by ancient Greeks and Romans for courage and bravery.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a gemstone of exceptional beauty and profound significance. For those born on August 21st, it offers a unique connection to the geological forces of the Earth and the cosmos, being one of the few gems found in both volcanic rock and meteorites. Its distinct yellowish-green color, derived from iron within the olivine structure, sets it apart from other green gemstones, despite its historical confusion with emeralds.
Beyond its physical attributes, Peridot carries a legacy of compassion, renewal, and protection. From the ancient Egyptians who revered it as the "gem of the sun" to the modern belief in its ability to dispel negativity and foster joy, Peridot remains a potent symbol of positivity. However, its relative softness requires diligent care, ensuring that this vibrant green gem retains its brilliance for generations. Whether valued for its scientific rarity, its historical lore, or its metaphysical properties, Peridot remains a distinguished and cherished member of the birthstone family.