Peridot: The Vivid Green Birthstone of August

Peridot, the brilliant green gemstone designated for the month of August, is a gem of striking color and intriguing origins. Its cheerful hue, ranging from yellow-green to olive, has captivated humanity for millennia, earning it a place in royal treasuries and modern jewelry boxes alike. As August's primary birthstone, peridot is celebrated for its unique geological story, which includes formations deep within the Earth and, in some extraordinary cases, journeys from outer space. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of peridot, exploring its pronunciation, rich history, geological origins, distinct gemological properties, and the cultural symbolism that has surrounded it throughout the ages.

Pronunciation and Etymology

The correct pronunciation of "peridot" is a topic of interest for many, with two accepted forms. The word has French origins, and following this linguistic tradition, many jewelers and gemstone enthusiasts pronounce it as "pear-eh-doe," without sounding the final "t." However, it is also entirely correct to pronounce it as "pear-eh-dot," which is the common American English way of saying it. Both pronunciations are found in most dictionaries and are considered acceptable. The gemstone's name is derived from the French word peritot, whose exact origin is debated but may relate to the word for "unclear" or "skipping," possibly referring to the gem's clarity or the way light interacts with it.

Historical Lore and Journey to Birthstone Status

Peridot's history is long and often intertwined with that of other green gems, leading to cases of mistaken identity. Its most celebrated historical source is Zabargad (also known as St. John's Island), an island in the Red Sea. For centuries, this location was the primary source of gem-quality peridot. Ancient Egyptians mined peridot on this island, referring to it as the "gem of the sun." They believed the stone was a gift from the Earth, capable of warding off evil and protecting its wearer during the night. Peridot was used in the jewelry of Egyptian pharaohs and was a favorite gem in the ancient world, with significant deposits found in the ruins of ancient Egypt.

Throughout history, peridot has been mistaken for other green stones, including emeralds. Some historians believe that the famous 200-carat "Emerald" adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral is, in fact, a large peridot. Similarly, peridot was often confused with topaz in medieval times. The gem's association with August began in 1912, when the American National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) standardized the modern list of birthstones. Peridot was officially designated as the birthstone for August, a status it has maintained ever since. This list was created to provide a standardized guide for the jewelry industry and consumers.

Geological Formation and Sources

Peridot's formation is unique among gemstones. It is one of the few gemstones that crystallize not in the Earth's crust but in the Earth's mantle. It forms in magma that rises from deep within the Earth, specifically in peridotite, a rock found in the upper mantle. This magma can erupt to the surface as lava, carrying peridot crystals with it. The gem can also be found in certain types of meteorites, making it one of the few gems with an extraterrestrial origin. These meteoritic peridots, known as pallasites, are extremely rare and highly prized by collectors.

Historically, the most significant source of peridot was Zabargad in the Red Sea, which supplied the ancient world. Today, peridot is mined in several locations around the globe. Major modern sources include: - United States (Arizona): The San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is a leading producer of peridot, known for its vibrant, medium to dark green crystals. - Pakistan: The Kashmir region and the Hunza Valley are known for producing high-quality peridot with excellent clarity and color. - Egypt: While the historic Zabargad mine is largely depleted, peridot is still mined in the Egyptian Red Sea region. - Other Locations: Significant deposits are also found in China, Myanmar (Burma), and Brazil. Each location produces peridot with slightly different characteristics, influencing color and clarity.

Gemological Properties

Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. Its color is its most defining feature, ranging from a light, lime green to a deep olive green. The presence of iron is responsible for the green color; the more iron present, the deeper the green. Unlike many other green gems, peridot does not typically undergo heat treatment to enhance its color, as its natural hue is already highly desirable.

The following table summarizes key gemological properties of peridot, as established in standard gemology:

Property	Description
Mineral Family	Olivine
Chemical Formula	(Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄
Crystal System	Orthorhombic
Hardness (Mohs Scale)	6.5 - 7
Refractive Index	1.65 - 1.69
Specific Gravity	3.34 - 3.48
Luster	Vitreous (glassy)
Transparency	Transparent to translucent
Typical Inclusions	Needle-like crystals, small fluid inclusions, "lily pad" inclusions

Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for most jewelry types, though it can be scratched by harder materials. It has good toughness but possesses perfect cleavage in two directions, meaning it can split if struck with sufficient force along these planes. This property requires care in cutting and setting. Peridot is typically transparent with a vitreous luster. Common inclusions include small, needle-like crystals (often called "lily pads" due to their shape) and tiny fluid or gas inclusions. These inclusions are natural and can help identify the gem.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Throughout history, peridot has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical powers. Ancient Egyptians revered it as a stone of the sun, believing it could dispel darkness and protect against evil spirits. It was often worn as an amulet to ward off nightmares and bring joy and good fortune. The Greeks and Romans also valued peridot, associating it with the sun god Helios and believing it could bring light and happiness.

In modern crystal healing practices, peridot is often called the "Stone of Compassion." It is believed to promote emotional balance, alleviate stress, and encourage positive growth and renewal. Some traditions associate it with the heart chakra, linking it to love, forgiveness, and relationships. As the birthstone for August, it is said to bring good luck, peace, and success to those born in that month. While these metaphysical beliefs are part of the gem's cultural lore, they are not supported by scientific gemology.

Care and Cleaning

Due to its moderate hardness and perfect cleavage, peridot requires careful handling to maintain its beauty. It should be protected from sharp blows and hard surfaces. To clean peridot jewelry, use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as the vibrations can cause damage, especially if the stone has inclusions or fractures. Steam cleaning is also not recommended. Store peridot pieces separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. With proper care, peridot jewelry can retain its vibrant color and brilliance for generations.

Conclusion

Peridot is a gemstone of remarkable character, combining a cheerful green hue with a deep and storied past. From its ancient origins in the Red Sea to its modern sources in Arizona and Pakistan, it has consistently been valued for its beauty. Its unique formation deep within the Earth, and occasionally in space, sets it apart geologically. As August's birthstone, peridot carries a legacy of light, protection, and compassion, making it a meaningful and enduring choice for jewelry and a cherished symbol for those born in the warm days of summer.