The vibrant, lime-green gemstone known as peridot has captivated humanity for millennia, earning its place as the official birthstone for the month of August. Revered in ancient civilizations for its purported protective qualities and celebrated in modern jewelry for its luminous hue, peridot represents a unique intersection of geological wonder and cultural lore. Today, this gem is prominently featured in contemporary jewelry designs, most notably in the popular "August Birthstone Eternity Ring." This article delves into the history, properties, and significance of peridot, while also examining the modern jewelry piece that has become synonymous with its celebration. Based on an analysis of available materials, this guide provides a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking to understand the legacy behind this radiant green gem.
History and Lore: From Ancient Egypt to Modern Jewelry
Peridot’s history is as rich and layered as its color. Its most celebrated ancient source was the island of Zabargad (now St. John's Island) in the Red Sea, which was the primary source of this gem for over 3,500 years. Egyptian records indicate that peridot was mined on this island as early as 1500 BCE. The Egyptians referred to peridot as the "gem of the sun," believing it possessed the power to ward off the terrors of the night and protect against evil spirits. It was a favorite stone of royalty and was often set in gold jewelry, including the famous emerald-like gems in the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in the Cologne Cathedral, which were later identified as peridot.
The gem's journey through history continued with the Romans, who valued peridot for its beauty and clarity. They used it in intricate jewelry and believed it could alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of peace. During the Middle Ages, peridot was often confused with emerald due to its similar color, leading to its misidentification in many historical pieces. However, its distinct optical properties—specifically its lack of dichroism—eventually helped gemologists distinguish it from emerald.
The modern recognition of peridot as an August birthstone is a relatively recent development. The concept of birthstones can be traced back to the breastplate of Aaron in the Old Testament, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. In the 1st century AD, the historian Josephus suggested a connection between these stones and the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac. This idea was further developed in the 18th and 19th centuries, but it wasn't until 1912 that the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones. Peridot was designated for August, a tradition that has been maintained and occasionally updated by other organizations since. The gem's association with August is linked to its vibrant green color, reminiscent of the late summer and early autumn foliage, and its historical connection to prosperity and protection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in a single color family: olive to lime green. This unique hue is a direct result of its chemical composition. Peridot is the gemological variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate with the chemical formula (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. The specific shade of green is determined by the iron content within the crystal structure; higher iron concentrations produce a deeper, more yellowish-green, while lower iron levels yield a lighter, lime-green hue.
The formation of peridot is a geological marvel. Unlike many gemstones that crystallize in the Earth's crust, peridot is one of the few that can be found in the mantle, the layer beneath the Earth's crust. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Large crystals of peridot are sometimes found in basaltic lavas, where they are carried up from the mantle. This origin story makes peridot one of the few gems that can be found in meteorites, known as pallasite meteorites, where it forms in the vacuum of space.
Historically, the most important source of gem-quality peridot was the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. While production from this source has been sporadic and is now largely depleted, other significant sources have emerged. Modern peridot is mined in various locations around the world, including:
- United States: Arizona is a notable source, particularly the San Carlos Apache Reservation, which produces peridot from volcanic deposits.
- Pakistan: The Kashmir region, particularly around the city of Kohistan, is known for producing large, high-quality peridot crystals.
- China: Significant deposits have been found in the Xinjiang and Heilongjiang provinces.
- Myanmar (Burma): Historical and modern sources exist in the Mogok region.
- Egypt: While the ancient mines on Zabargad are largely inactive, Egypt still produces some peridot.
The availability of peridot from these diverse sources ensures a steady supply, though the finest gems—those with a vivid, pure green color and minimal inclusions—command premium prices in the market.
Gemological Properties
Understanding peridot's gemological properties is essential for appreciating its value and ensuring its proper care. The following table summarizes its key characteristics, based on standard gemological data.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7.0 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 - 1.69 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.48 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Color | Olive to lime green; the iron content dictates the shade. |
| Cleavage | Poor to indistinct |
| Toughness | Fair to good |
Color and Clarity: The most valued peridot is a pure, rich green with no hint of yellow or brown. Inclusions are common in peridot and can be accepted as part of the stone's character, provided they do not significantly impact the gem's durability or visual appeal. A clean, eye-clear peridot is relatively rare and valuable.
Hardness and Durability: With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is moderately durable but not as hard as corundum (ruby/sapphire, 9) or diamond (10). This makes it susceptible to scratching if handled carelessly, especially when worn in rings. However, its good toughness (resistance to breakage) means it is less likely to chip or crack compared to some other gemstones.
Cut and Treatment: Peridot is almost always faceted to maximize its brilliance and color. Common cuts include oval, round, pear, and emerald cuts. It is rarely subjected to treatments, as its color is generally stable and its clarity is naturally acceptable. Heat treatment is not a standard practice for peridot, as it does not significantly improve its color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot's symbolic meanings are deeply rooted in its historical lore and cultural significance. Across different eras and civilizations, the gem has been associated with a variety of positive attributes and protective powers.
Prosperity and Abundance: One of the most enduring beliefs is that peridot attracts wealth and prosperity. In ancient Egypt, it was considered a symbol of the goddess Isis and was believed to bring good fortune and success. This association with wealth continues today, with some modern metaphysical practitioners suggesting that peridot can help manifest goals and attract abundance.
Protection and Healing: The ancient Egyptians wore peridot amulets to ward off evil spirits and protect against nightmares. It was also believed to have healing properties, particularly for the heart, lungs, and lymphatic system. In medieval Europe, it was thought to promote healing and strengthen the eyes. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the gem's enduring mystique.
Emotional Balance and Renewal: Peridot's vibrant green color is often linked to renewal, growth, and the cycles of nature. It is said to promote emotional balance, alleviate stress, and encourage positive feelings. Some believe that wearing peridot can help release past traumas and foster a sense of new beginnings.
Birthstone Significance: As the August birthstone, peridot is believed to bring its bearers the qualities of its historical lore—protection, prosperity, and emotional well-being. It is also the traditional gem for the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing the enduring and prosperous nature of a long-term partnership.
The Modern Eternity Ring
While peridot itself has an ancient history, the specific jewelry item mentioned in the search query—the "August Birthstone Eternity Ring"—is a distinctly modern creation. An eternity ring is a band of metal set with a continuous line of gemstones, symbolizing eternal love and commitment. When this design incorporates peridot, it becomes a personalized piece that celebrates an August birthday or a significant anniversary.
Based on the provided materials, these rings are typically crafted from sterling silver or gold vermeil (a thick layer of gold over sterling silver). The gemstone used is not natural peridot but cubic zirconia (CZ) in a light green color to emulate the appearance of peridot. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone known for its brilliance and affordability, making it an accessible option for fashion jewelry.
The design details from the sources include: * Stone Setting: The stones are typically bezel-set, where a metal rim encircles each gemstone, providing a secure hold and a modern aesthetic. * Cut: The stones are often cut in an Asscher cut, a square step cut with cropped corners, which gives the ring a distinctive geometric appearance. * Band Width: The band width is generally between 2.5 to 3mm, creating a delicate yet noticeable piece. * Sizes: These rings are available in a range of sizes, typically from 5 to 10 (whole sizes only).
These eternity rings are marketed as fashionable, everyday jewelry. They are not intended as fine jewelry with natural gemstones but as stylish, symbolic accessories. The use of cubic zirconia allows for a consistent, bright green color that is difficult to achieve in natural peridot at a low price point. The association with the August birthstone provides a meaningful connection to the gem's historical lore of prosperity and protection, even if the material is synthetic.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone jewelry. The care instructions for peridot, whether natural or simulated, are guided by its physical properties.
For natural peridot: * Cleaning: Clean peridot jewelry with warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone or its setting. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. * Storage: Store peridot separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching, as it has a moderate hardness. A fabric-lined jewelry box or a soft pouch is ideal. * Wear and Tear: Due to its moderate hardness, it is advisable to remove peridot rings during activities that could expose them to hard impacts or abrasive surfaces, such as gardening, sports, or manual work.
For cubic zirconia jewelry (like the eternity rings described): * Cleaning: Cubic zirconia can be cleaned similarly to natural gems. Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the metal setting. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for cubic zirconia but may loosen the stones if the setting is not secure; it is best to check with the manufacturer. * Durability: Cubic zirconia is relatively soft (Mohs hardness around 8-8.5) but can be scratched by harder materials like diamond or corundum. It is also prone to chipping if struck with significant force. The bezel setting in the described eternity rings offers good protection for the stones. * Longevity: Over time, cubic zirconia may become cloudy or scratched with regular wear. It is a cost-effective alternative to natural gemstones, but its appearance may degrade faster than a natural gem of similar hardness.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a gemstone of remarkable history and enduring appeal. From its ancient origins in the Red Sea to its modern status as the August birthstone, it has consistently symbolized protection, prosperity, and renewal. Its unique geological formation and distinctive olive-to-lime green color make it a favorite among gemologists and jewelry lovers alike. While natural peridot is valued for its rarity and beauty, the modern "August Birthstone Eternity Ring" exemplifies how the gem's symbolism is adapted into accessible, fashionable jewelry. Whether set in a fine ring as a natural stone or simulated in a cubic zirconia band, peridot continues to captivate, serving as a luminous reminder of the vibrant energy of late summer and the timeless allure of the natural world. For those born in August or celebrating a 16th anniversary, peridot offers a connection to a rich legacy of beauty and meaning.