Peridot, a gemstone of luminous green, stands as the primary birthstone for the month of August. Its vibrant hue, ranging from yellowish-green to greenish-yellow, has captivated humanity for millennia, earning it evocative names like the “evening emerald” and the “gem of the Sun.” While August also claims sardonyx and spinel as birthstones, peridot is unequivocally the most popular and widely recognized choice for those born in this summer month. This article explores the rich history, unique geological origins, precise gemological properties, enduring symbolism, and practical care guidelines for peridot, drawing exclusively from authoritative sources.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to birth months has deep historical roots, with origins often traced to Poland or Germany several centuries ago. This practice evolved into multiple sets of birthstones—ancient, traditional, and modern. Peridot is firmly established as a traditional birthstone for August, with its association dating back to the 15th century or earlier. Its journey through history is marked by frequent confusion with other, more famous green gems, a testament to its striking visual appeal.
Throughout antiquity and the medieval period, peridot was often mistaken for emerald. This confusion is so pervasive that some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection was, in fact, largely composed of peridot. Further evidence of this historical misidentification can be found in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings is adorned with 200 carats of gems that were long believed to be emeralds but have since been identified as peridot, the true August birthstone.
The gem’s name itself has an international history. The word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic faridat, which simply means “gem.” This Arabic etymology underscores the stone’s long-standing value across ancient and medieval cultures. Peridot appears in the jewelry of priests as early as the second century BCE and was later incorporated into the chalices and church adornments of medieval Europe. Beyond its decorative and religious uses, peridot was also believed to possess protective qualities. For centuries, it was used as a talisman, thought to shield its owner from evil spirits and the “terrors of the night.”
The gemstone is also linked to personal milestones, serving as the traditional gift for a 16th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot’s origin story is as remarkable as its color. It is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. What sets peridot apart from many other gemstones is its formation under extreme conditions. Unlike most gems that crystallize in the Earth’s crust, peridot can be found in the hardened lava that carried it from deep within the planet’s mantle. In a truly extraordinary twist of geology, peridot is also found in meteorites that have journeyed from outer space to Earth.
The oldest recorded source of peridot is the Egyptian island of Zabargad (historically known as Topazios) in the Red Sea. Mining on this island is believed to have begun around 340–279 BCE. The island produced beautiful peridot, but its harsh conditions earned it ominous names like the “Island of Death” and Ophiodes, or “snake island.” Despite these challenges, peridot from Zabargad has been prized for centuries and remains highly desirable. It is notable that the Red Sea island of Topazios, a purported source of the name “topaz,” actually produced peridot, adding another layer to the historical confusion between these gems.
Today, the majority of peridot seen in jewelry originates from a variety of global sources, including China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. Some of these sources are as exotic as the gem itself; for instance, Peridot Beach in Hawaii is a location where the sands shimmer a luminous green, a direct result of peridot fragments.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a gemstone with a distinct and well-defined set of physical and optical characteristics. Its identity as the gem variety of olivine is central to understanding its properties. The following table summarizes its key gemological data, compiled from the provided sources.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Olivine |
| Chemical Composition | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Color | Yellowish green to greenish yellow |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 to 7 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.654 - 1.690 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.34 - 3.51 |
| Common Treatments | Generally none; heating is not common |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
The gem’s hardness, ranging from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, makes it durable enough for everyday jewelry, though it requires reasonable care to avoid scratches. Its vitreous luster contributes to its bright, lively appearance. Peridot is not typically subjected to treatments like heating, which is common for many other colored stones; its color is primarily a natural result of its iron content.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot’s symbolism is deeply intertwined with its historical lore and physical attributes. As the “gem of the Sun,” revered by ancient Egyptians, it carries connotations of light, warmth, and vitality. Its green color, reminiscent of new growth, naturally associates it with themes of rebirth, renewal, and prosperity.
The protective talismanic beliefs surrounding peridot are significant. For centuries, it was worn or carried to ward off evil spirits and nocturnal fears, suggesting a symbolism of safety and courage. This protective quality, combined with its connection to the sun, positions peridot as a stone of strength and positive energy.
In modern metaphysical circles, peridot is often linked to the heart chakra, promoting emotional balance and healing. It is believed to foster compassion and forgiveness, while also attracting abundance and good fortune. While these contemporary beliefs are not explicitly detailed in the historical sources, they represent a continuation of the stone’s long-standing association with well-being and positive influence.
Care and Cleaning
Given its gemological properties, peridot requires specific care to maintain its beauty and integrity. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, it is moderately durable but can be scratched by harder materials like corundum (ruby, sapphire) or diamond. It is also susceptible to chipping or breaking if struck with sufficient force due to its orthorhombic crystal structure, which may present cleavage.
Cleaning: The safest method for cleaning peridot is using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally not recommended, as the vibrations or sudden temperature changes could potentially damage the stone, especially if it has any inclusions or fractures. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Storage: To prevent scratches, store peridot jewelry separately from other gems, ideally in a soft-lined jewelry box or pouch. Avoid exposing the gemstone to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners or cosmetics, which could dull its surface over time.
Conclusion
Peridot is a gemstone of profound historical significance, unique geological origins, and captivating beauty. As the traditional and most popular birthstone for August, it carries a legacy of being mistaken for emerald, revered as a solar talisman, and sourced from both the Earth’s mantle and outer space. Its vibrant green hue, defined by its olivine composition, and its durability make it a cherished choice for jewelry. From the ancient mines of Egypt to modern jewelry boxes worldwide, peridot continues to symbolize light, protection, and renewal. For those born in August, it offers a direct connection to a gemstone rich with stories and scientific wonder, a true “evening emerald” that shines with its own unique light.