August is unique in the world of birthstones, offering a trio of distinct gems rather than a single option. Among these, peridot stands out as the primary modern birthstone, celebrated for its vibrant, lime-green hue and a history that spans millennia. While spinel and sardonyx serve as traditional and alternative choices, peridot’s singular color and deep symbolic associations have made it the most recognized gem for those born in the eighth month. This article delves into the geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and cultural significance of peridot, drawing exclusively from authoritative sources to provide a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and students of gemology.
Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate of magnesium and iron. Its distinctive green color, which can range from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green depending on the iron content, is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one primary color family. The name "peridot" is believed to derive from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. Throughout history, its resemblance to other green gemstones led to frequent confusion; many "emeralds" found in medieval European cathedral treasures have since been identified as peridots. As the August birthstone, peridot is traditionally associated with bringing good luck, peace, and success to those born in this month. Its energy is often described as uplifting and joyful, mirroring the warmth and abundance of the summer season it represents.
Historical Significance and Lore
The history of peridot is as ancient as it is rich, with evidence of its use dating back to the early civilizations of the world. One of the earliest known sources of peridot is the island of Zabargad (also known as St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, which was mined as early as 1500 B.C. Egyptian priests are said to have used peridot in their jewelry and amulets, believing it to be a stone of the sun, capable of warding off evil spirits and nightmares. The gems were so treasured that they were often mistaken for emeralds due to their rich green hue, a confusion that persisted for centuries.
During the Middle Ages, peridot was brought to Europe by the Crusaders and was used to adorn religious artifacts and the crowns of royalty. The most famous historical example is the "Evening Star of Egypt," a large peridot that once adorned a statue of the Virgin Mary in Germany. Many of the "emeralds" in the Vatican’s treasures have been re-examined and found to be peridots. This historical misidentification underscores the gem’s enduring appeal and its visual similarity to the most prized of green gemstones.
In terms of its journey to becoming a modern birthstone, peridot was officially designated as the August birthstone in the 1912 list by the National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America). This list was a standardization effort to provide a consistent set of gemstones for each month. The addition of peridot to the list was likely influenced by its growing popularity and availability, as well as its distinct and desirable color. Sardonyx is considered the traditional August birthstone, and spinel was added as an alternative in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), giving August-born individuals a wider palette of choices. However, peridot remains the primary stone associated with the month in contemporary culture.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s formation is a geological process that sets it apart from many other gemstones. Unlike most gemstones that form in the Earth’s crust, peridot is found in the Earth’s upper mantle and is brought to the surface through tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions. The mineral olivine, from which peridot is derived, is a major component of the Earth’s mantle. In fact, peridot crystals have even been discovered in meteorites, earning it the nickname "the gemstone from outer space." These extraterrestrial peridots, however, are rarely used in jewelry due to their small size and rarity.
The most significant commercial sources of gem-quality peridot include: * Pakistan: The region around the Koh-i-Sultan mountain range is a primary source of high-quality peridot. These gems are known for their vibrant, saturated green color. * Arizona, USA: The San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona has been a major source of peridot since the late 19th century. The peridot found here is often a lighter, more yellowish-green. * Egypt: The ancient mines on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea are still a source of peridot, though production is limited. * China: The Xinjiang region produces peridot, often in larger sizes suitable for statement jewelry. * Other locations: Myanmar, Australia, and Brazil also have deposits of peridot, though they are less commercially significant than those in Pakistan and Arizona.
The color of peridot is directly related to its iron content. Higher iron concentrations result in a deeper, more olive-green hue, while lower iron levels produce a lighter, lime-green color. This variability allows for a range of green shades within the gemstone family, all of which are considered peridot.
Gemological Properties
Peridot possesses a unique set of physical and chemical properties that define its character and durability. Understanding these properties is essential for both gemologists and consumers, as they influence the stone’s value, care, and suitability for jewelry.
Chemical Composition and Structure: * Mineral: Olivine (specifically, forsterite-rich variety) * Chemical Formula: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ * Crystal System: Orthorhombic * Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes peridot relatively durable for everyday wear, though it is softer than sapphire (9) or diamond (10). It is suitable for rings, earrings, and pendants but may show scratches over time if worn daily on the hand. * Refractive Index: 1.654 – 1.690 * Specific Gravity: 3.27 – 3.37 * Cleavage: Poor. This is an advantage, as poor cleavage means the gem is less likely to split along internal planes when struck. * Luster: Vitreous (glass-like) * Transparency: Transparent to translucent. Gem-quality peridot is always transparent.
Color and Clarity: Peridot is prized for its consistent color, which is due to the presence of iron within its crystal structure. Unlike many gemstones that require treatment to enhance their color, natural peridot is typically mined with its characteristic green hue. The most valuable peridot exhibits a rich, saturated green with minimal brownish overtones. Clarity is generally good; inclusions are common but often do not significantly detract from the stone’s beauty. Some peridots may contain "lily pad" inclusions—tiny, disc-shaped fluid-filled cavities—or minute mineral crystals.
Cut and Carat: Peridot is cut into a variety of shapes, including rounds, ovals, cushions, and pears. Its good clarity allows for faceted cuts that maximize its brilliance and color. While large peridots are more common than large emeralds or sapphires, stones over 10 carats are still considered rare and command higher prices. The largest known faceted peridot, the "The Sunstone of the Pharaohs," weighs over 310 carats and is housed in the Smithsonian Institution.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties of peridot:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Olivine (forsterite-rich) |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.654 – 1.690 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.27 – 3.37 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Typical Colors | Yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical attributes, peridot is steeped in symbolism and metaphysical lore. These beliefs, passed down through centuries, contribute to the gem’s enduring popularity and its association with positive energy and well-being.
Historical Symbolism: In ancient Egypt, peridot was known as the "gem of the sun" and was believed to protect the wearer from evil spirits and nightmares. It was also associated with strength and was thought to bring the wearer happiness and good fortune. The Greeks and Romans also valued peridot, using it in jewelry and believing it to be a symbol of fertility and abundance.
Modern Metaphysical Beliefs: In contemporary crystal healing and metaphysical practices, peridot is often linked to the Heart Chakra. It is believed to promote emotional healing, release negative patterns, and open the heart to love and compassion. Its bright green color is associated with growth, renewal, and the vitality of summer. Many believe that wearing peridot can boost confidence, reduce stress, and attract prosperity and success.
For those born in August, peridot is said to amplify the positive traits of the month—warmth, energy, and strength. Some sources suggest that peridot can help individuals connect with their inner light and overcome feelings of jealousy or resentment, fostering a sense of peace and contentment. While these metaphysical properties are not scientifically proven, they form a significant part of the gemstone’s cultural legacy and personal appeal.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is reasonably durable but requires proper care to maintain its beauty. It is softer than many popular gemstones like sapphire, ruby, and diamond, so it can be scratched if not handled with care.
Cleaning: The safest way to clean peridot jewelry is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, as they can damage the stone’s surface. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally not recommended for peridot, as the vibrations and high heat can cause fractures in stones with inclusions. Always rinse the jewelry thoroughly and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Storage and Wear: To prevent scratches, store peridot jewelry separately from other gems, preferably in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. It is advisable to remove peridot rings and bracelets during activities that could cause impact or abrasion, such as gardening, sports, or heavy manual work. When worn regularly, peridot should be inspected periodically by a professional jeweler to check for loose settings or potential damage.
Conclusion
Peridot stands as a luminous and historically significant gemstone, uniquely suited to represent the month of August. Its formation in the Earth’s mantle and even in meteorites gives it a cosmic pedigree, while its vibrant green color has captivated humanity for millennia. From its ancient Egyptian roots as the "gem of the sun" to its modern status as the primary August birthstone, peridot carries a legacy of protection, luck, and joy. While spinel and sardonyx offer compelling alternatives for August-born individuals, peridot’s singular hue and rich symbolism make it a timeless choice. Whether selected for its beauty, its historical depth, or its purported metaphysical benefits, peridot remains a radiant emblem of summer’s energy and a cherished gem in the world of fine jewelry.