The vibrant, olive-green gemstone known as peridot stands as the traditional birthstone for the month of August. Celebrated for its distinct color and rich history, peridot has been cherished across millennia, from the ancient Egyptians who called it the "gem of the sun" to modern jewelry enthusiasts. This article provides a detailed exploration of peridot, covering its geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and its enduring role in contemporary jewelry, particularly in the form of bracelets and other adornments.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is as deep and luminous as the stone itself. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations, most notably in Egypt. The Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John's Island) in the Red Sea as early as 1500 B.C. They prized the stone for its captivating glow, which was believed to be a divine gift. The ancient Egyptians associated peridot with the sun god Ra, attributing to it the power to ward off evil and protect against nightmares. It was often set in gold and worn as protective amulets, and its green hue was thought to symbolize growth and renewal.
Peridot's journey through history continued with the Romans, who also valued the gemstone, calling it "topazion," a name that has caused some historical confusion. The Romans believed peridot could cure asthma and other ailments, and they used it to adorn their jewelry and decorative objects. During the Middle Ages, peridot was often confused with emeralds due to its green color. Many historical "emeralds" in royal collections, such as those in the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, have been identified by modern gemologists as peridots. This misidentification highlights peridot's enduring appeal and its ability to mimic the coveted green of emeralds.
The gemstone's significance extends to various cultures. In Hawaiian folklore, peridot is said to be the tears of the goddess Pele, the deity of volcanoes and fire. Legend states that each eruption of Kilauea volcano produces new peridot crystals, which wash up on the shores of the islands. This connection to volcanic activity underscores peridot's unique geological origins.
Peridot was officially recognized as a birthstone for August in the United States in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), solidifying its place in modern birthstone tradition. This designation helped elevate peridot from a historical gem to a mainstream choice for personal jewelry, including birthstone bracelets, rings, and pendants.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. Unlike many gemstones that form in the Earth's crust, peridot has a unique origin. It is one of the few gemstones formed deep within the Earth's mantle, brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The most significant sources of peridot are located in the Earth's upper mantle, where high temperatures and pressures create the conditions for olivine crystallization. These crystals are then transported to the surface via magma flows, often found in igneous rocks like basalt.
Historically, the most famous source was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, which produced peridot for over 3,500 years. Today, however, the primary commercial sources are in Pakistan, Myanmar, and the United States. Pakistan's Kashmir region is renowned for producing large, high-quality peridot crystals, often found in veins within the rock. Myanmar (formerly Burma) also yields exceptional peridot, particularly from the Mogok region, known for its gem-rich deposits.
In the United States, peridot is mined in Arizona, specifically in the San Carlos Apache Reservation. This source is notable for producing peridot in significant quantities, often in larger sizes suitable for statement jewelry. The peridot from Arizona is typically found in basaltic formations and is known for its rich, olive-green color. Other sources include Australia, Brazil, China, and Kenya, each contributing to the global supply of this gemstone.
The formation of peridot is closely tied to tectonic activity. It can also be found in meteorites, known as pallasite meteorites, which contain olivine crystals embedded in a metallic matrix. These extraterrestrial peridots are rare and highly valued by collectors, offering a cosmic connection to the gemstone's origins.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a distinct set of gemological characteristics that make it both beautiful and durable, though it requires careful handling. Below is a detailed overview of its properties, based on established gemological standards.
Color and Clarity
Peridot is prized for its olive to lime-green color, which is caused by the presence of iron in its chemical composition. The most desirable hue is a vibrant, saturated green without brown or yellow undertones. The color is consistent throughout the stone, as peridot is a single-color gem, unlike stones that exhibit pleochroism. Clarity is generally good, with peridot often having inclusions that are accepted as part of its character. Common inclusions include tiny, needle-like crystals, which can sometimes resemble the "horsetail" inclusions found in demantoid garnets.
Hardness and Durability
On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7.0. This makes it moderately durable but susceptible to scratches and abrasions if not handled with care. It is softer than quartz (7.0) and much softer than diamond (10). Peridot has perfect cleavage in two directions, meaning it can break along these planes if struck with sufficient force. This property requires jewelers to exercise caution during cutting and setting, and owners to avoid exposing peridot jewelry to hard impacts.
Refractive Index and Other Properties
Peridot has a refractive index of approximately 1.65 to 1.69, which is relatively high for a non-quartz gemstone. Its birefringence is about 0.036, and it is singly refractive. The specific gravity ranges from 3.22 to 3.45, and it has a vitreous luster. Peridot is not typically treated to enhance its color, making it a natural and untreated gemstone in most cases. However, some lower-quality stones might be coated or dyed, though this is less common and often disclosed by reputable dealers.
Cut and Carat
Peridot is cut into a variety of shapes, including rounds, ovals, cushions, and emerald cuts. Larger stones (over 10 carats) are relatively rare and command higher prices. The gem's color is often most vibrant in larger sizes, making it a popular choice for center stones in rings and pendants. In jewelry like bracelets, peridot is frequently cut into smaller, uniform beads or faceted stones to create a cohesive look.
The table below summarizes key gemological properties of peridot:
| Property | Value/Range |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Olive green to lime green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 - 7.0 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 - 1.69 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.22 - 3.45 |
| Birefringence | 0.036 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | Perfect in two directions |
| Typical Treatments | Usually untreated |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical attributes, peridot is steeped in symbolism and metaphysical lore. Historically, it has been associated with light, protection, and healing. The ancient Egyptians believed it was a stone of the sun, capable of dispelling darkness and fear. It was often worn as an amulet to guard against evil spirits and to promote a sense of security.
In modern crystal healing practices, peridot is considered a stone of abundance and prosperity. It is believed to attract wealth and success, both materially and spiritually. Its green color is linked to the heart chakra, making it a gemstone associated with love, compassion, and emotional balance. Practitioners suggest that peridot can help heal heartache, foster forgiveness, and encourage personal growth.
Peridot is also thought to have physical healing properties. It is said to support the health of the heart, lungs, and spleen, and to aid in detoxification. Some believe it can alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. While these metaphysical beliefs are not scientifically verified, they contribute to peridot's popularity as a gift and a personal talisman.
In astrology, peridot is sometimes linked to the zodiac sign Leo, in addition to its August birthstone association. It is believed to enhance the positive traits of Leos, such as confidence and creativity, while mitigating potential weaknesses like arrogance or stubbornness.
Peridot in Jewelry, Especially Bracelets
Peridot's vibrant color and moderate durability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of jewelry designs. Its affordability compared to emeralds and diamonds allows for creative and extensive use in pieces like bracelets, where multiple stones can be set or strung together.
Design Trends and Popularity
In contemporary jewelry, peridot is frequently used in birthstone collections, particularly for August-born individuals. Bracelets featuring peridot are popular as both fashion accessories and meaningful gifts. They can be crafted in various styles, from delicate chain bracelets with small peridot accents to bold statement pieces with large beads or clusters of stones.
The gemstone's color pairs well with both yellow and white metals, such as gold and sterling silver. Yellow gold enhances the warm, golden undertones of peridot, while white metals complement its cool green hue. Peridot is also often combined with other gemstones in multi-stone bracelets, creating a vibrant contrast with blues, purples, or diamonds.
Market and Accessibility
Peridot is relatively accessible in terms of price, making it an attractive option for everyday jewelry. High-quality peridot in larger sizes is more expensive, but smaller stones are affordable for a broad audience. Online retailers and specialty jewelry stores frequently offer peridot bracelets, catering to the demand for birthstone jewelry.
When purchasing peridot jewelry, it is advisable to buy from reputable sources that provide information about the gemstone's origin and any treatments. Given its susceptibility to scratches, it is important to consider the setting and overall design for durability, especially in bracelets that may experience daily wear.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of peridot jewelry. Due to its moderate hardness and perfect cleavage, peridot requires gentle handling and regular maintenance.
Cleaning Methods
To clean peridot, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to remove dirt and oils. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone or loosen its setting. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Storage and Handling
Store peridot jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratches. Use a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid exposing peridot to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, which can cause stress fractures. When wearing peridot bracelets or rings, remove them during physical activities, gardening, or household chores to minimize the risk of impact or abrasion.
Regular inspections by a professional jeweler are recommended to check the integrity of the settings and the condition of the stones. With proper care, peridot jewelry can remain vibrant and beautiful for generations.
Conclusion
Peridot, the August birthstone, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and historical depth. From its ancient origins in Egypt to its modern role in jewelry, peridot continues to captivate with its unique green hue and rich lore. Its geological formation deep within the Earth adds to its intrigue, while its gemological properties make it a durable yet delicate choice for adornment. As a symbol of light, protection, and abundance, peridot holds a special place in both gemology and cultural tradition. Whether set in a bracelet, ring, or pendant, peridot offers a timeless connection to the natural world and a personal touch for those born in August.