The designation of a birthstone for a specific day is more than a mere calendar association; it is a connection to a gem with a unique geological story, a rich historical lineage, and a spectrum of cultural symbolism. For individuals born on August 31st, the birthstone is peridot, a gem celebrated for its distinctive olive-green hue and its remarkable origins. While the month of August is shared by three official birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—peridot stands out as the primary gem for this date, embodying themes of light, renewal, and protection that have resonated with humanity for millennia.
This article provides a comprehensive exploration of peridot, the birthstone for August 31st. It will trace the gem's journey from its formation deep within the Earth and even from extraterrestrial sources, through its storied history in ancient Egypt and beyond, to its modern status as a cherished jewel. We will examine its defining gemological properties, delve into the lore and metaphysical beliefs that surround it, and offer practical guidance for its care. By synthesizing information from authoritative gemological sources, this guide presents a definitive portrait of peridot for enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone captivated by the science and lore of gemstones.
History and Lore
The history of peridot is as vibrant as the gem itself, stretching back over 3,000 years to some of the earliest civilizations. Its most prominent ancient association is with Egypt, where it was revered as the “gem of the sun.” The ancient Egyptians prized its bright, sunny green color, which seemed to shimmer with an inner light, and believed it offered protection from evil and nightmares. Historical records indicate that peridot was mined on the volcanic island of Zabargad (also known as Topazios) in the Red Sea, a source that supplied the ancient world with this prized gem. The island's identification as a source of "topaz" in antiquity has led to centuries of confusion, but modern scholarship confirms that the gems from Zabargad were, in fact, peridot.
The reverence for peridot extended beyond Egypt. In the Middle Ages, the gem acquired the name “Evening Emerald” because its vibrant color remained visible and luminous even in dim light, a quality that made it particularly valued in candlelit environments. This characteristic distinguished it from many other green gems that would appear dark under such conditions.
Perhaps one of the most compelling historical narratives surrounding peridot is its frequent confusion with other, more famous green gemstones. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) notes that peridot has been mistaken for emerald for centuries. A prominent example is the collection of 200 carats of gems adorning the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. For generations, these stones were believed to be emeralds, but they have since been identified as peridot. This misidentification was not limited to medieval Europe; some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually been composed of large peridot gems. This long-standing case of mistaken identity underscores peridot’s beauty and value, positioning it as a gem worthy of royal and religious treasures. The word “peridot” itself is derived from the Arabic faridat, meaning "gem," a testament to its fundamental status as a precious stone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s origin story is unique among gemstones, as it is formed under extreme geological conditions both on Earth and in outer space. The peridot birthstone is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow variety of the mineral olivine. Its formation occurs deep within the Earth's mantle, and it is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The GIA explains that peridot can be found in the hardened lava that carries it from these immense depths. This volcanic origin makes it one of the few gems found in igneous rock.
Adding to its cosmic allure, peridot is also one of the only gemstones found in meteorites—extraterrestrial stones that have fallen to Earth from space. This dual origin, from both the Earth's mantle and meteorites, gives peridot a truly stellar pedigree and contributes to its association with light and the sun. The formation process is a testament to the gem's resilience, forged under pressures and temperatures that create its signature color.
Historically, the primary source of peridot was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This ancient mine was the source of the peridot that captivated the Egyptians and later, the Romans. While Zabargad remains a historically significant location, modern sources of peridot have been discovered in various parts of the world. The GIA mentions that the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is a significant contemporary source of peridot. This location highlights the gem's connection to indigenous cultures in North America. Other sources mentioned in the provided materials include Myanmar (Burma) and Pakistan, indicating a global distribution of this remarkable gem. These modern sources ensure that peridot remains available to today's consumers, continuing a legacy that spans millennia.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and optical characteristics of peridot is essential for appreciating its value and beauty. As a gem variety of the mineral olivine, peridot possesses a distinct set of properties that define its identity.
Color: The most celebrated attribute of peridot is its color, which ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow. The GIA specifies that the finest peridot exhibits a pure, vibrant "grass green" hue with no brownish tints. This bright, consistent color is a result of its iron content and is a key factor in its appeal. The consistency of its color makes it a reliable and striking choice for jewelry.
Hardness and Durability: On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7. While this makes it a relatively durable gem suitable for everyday wear in jewelry like rings and pendants, it is softer than gems like sapphire or diamond (both ranking 9 and 10, respectively). This hardness means it can be scratched by materials of higher hardness and requires some care to avoid abrasion.
Clarity and Inclusions: Peridot is known for its "eye-clean" nature, meaning that high-quality specimens typically lack visible inclusions to the naked eye. However, like most natural gemstones, it can contain inclusions. One characteristic inclusion mentioned by the GIA is "lily pads," which are disc-shaped, gas-filled cavities. These unique inclusions can be used by gemologists to help identify natural peridot.
Chemical Composition: Peridot's chemical formula is (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. This composition, a solid solution between forsterite (Mg-rich) and fayalite (Fe-rich), is what gives peridot its characteristic green color. The amount of iron present directly influences the shade of green.
Cut and Carat: Peridot is cut into a variety of shapes to maximize its color and brilliance. Because its color is not overly dark, lapidaries can cut it into larger stones without sacrificing visual appeal. Well-cut peridots display excellent luster, making them appear to glow from within.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of peridot, based on the information provided in the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)2SiO4 |
| Color | Yellowish green to greenish yellow; pure "grass green" is most valued |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 - 7 |
| Clarity | Typically eye-clean; may contain "lily pad" inclusions |
| Sources | Red Sea (Zabargad), Arizona (San Carlos), Myanmar, Pakistan |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The allure of peridot extends beyond its physical beauty into the realm of symbolism and metaphysical belief, a legacy that has been built over thousands of years. The gem's most potent symbol is its connection to light. The ancient Egyptians’ moniker, the “gem of the sun,” encapsulates this belief, associating peridot with warmth, vitality, and divine radiance. It was thought to harness the power of the sun, offering protection from darkness and evil forces.
This association with light and renewal makes peridot a symbol of new beginnings and growth. Its vibrant green color, reminiscent of new foliage in spring, reinforces its connection to fresh starts and optimism. For individuals born at the end of summer, on August 31st, this symbolism is particularly resonant, marking the transition from one season to the next and celebrating the culmination of summer's growth.
In modern metaphysical circles, peridot is often considered a stone of compassion and healing. It is believed to promote emotional well-being, alleviate stress, and open the heart to forgiveness and understanding. Its protective qualities, cherished by the ancient Egyptians, are still valued today, with some believing it can shield the wearer from negative energies and psychic attacks. The gem's connection to the heart chakra further emphasizes its role in fostering love and emotional balance.
For those born on August 31st, peridot is not just a beautiful gem but a personal talisman. It is said to bring good fortune, enhance confidence, and encourage personal growth. Its energy is considered uplifting and revitalizing, aligning with the vibrant, late-summer spirit of those with this birthday.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of peridot jewelry. Due to its chemical composition and hardness, peridot requires specific handling and cleaning methods.
As a gem with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, peridot is durable enough for most jewelry applications but can be susceptible to scratching if not handled with care. It should be stored separately from harder gems like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies to prevent accidental abrasion. A soft-lined jewelry box or a separate pouch is ideal for storage.
Cleaning peridot is relatively straightforward. The safest method is to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, such as a toothbrush. Gently scrub the gemstone, paying attention to the areas underneath the setting where dirt can accumulate. After scrubbing, rinse the jewelry thoroughly with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. It is important to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the heat and vibrations can potentially damage the stone or cause existing fractures to expand. Additionally, peridot should be kept away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and cosmetics, which could dull its luster or damage its surface. With proper care, a peridot can remain a brilliant and cherished gem for generations.
Conclusion
Peridot, the birthstone for August 31st, is a gem of profound significance and singular beauty. Its journey from the volcanic depths of the Earth and the cold expanse of space to the treasured collections of ancient pharaohs and modern jewelers is a testament to its enduring appeal. Defined by its vibrant grass-green color, a product of its unique olivine composition, peridot has captivated humanity for millennia.
Its history is rich with lore, from its status as the "gem of the sun" in ancient Egypt to its widespread misidentification as an emerald, a confusion that speaks to its inherent value. Modern gemology has clarified its identity, yet its symbolic power remains, centered on themes of light, renewal, and protection. For those born on August 31st, peridot offers more than just a beautiful adornment; it provides a connection to a deep history and a source of positive, uplifting energy. Its remarkable origins, distinct physical properties, and storied past solidify peridot’s position as a truly special and meaningful gemstone, perfectly suited to mark the end of August.