For those fortunate enough to celebrate their birthday in August, the radiant peridot serves as a symbol of prosperity, growth, and protection. This striking gemstone, with its vibrant green hue, has been treasured for thousands of years, enchanting everyone from ancient Egyptians to modern-day gem enthusiasts. Join us at The Bench Jewellery in our series of articles about birthstones. Let’s consider the captivating world of peridot, exploring its history, meaning, and care tips to help you appreciate this remarkable birthstone.
The History and Lore of Peridot
Peridot, often referred to as the “evening emerald,” boasts a history as rich and vibrant as its colour. The gemstone’s allure dates back to ancient times when it was highly prized by various civilizations. The ancient Egyptians, who called it the “gem of the sun,” believed that peridot could protect against nightmares and bring the wearer good fortune. Some historians believe Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection was composed of peridots, further illustrating the stone’s historical significance.
The island of Zabargad (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea is one of the earliest known sources of peridot, where mining activities can be traced back over 3,500 years. Today, peridot is also found in countries such as Myanmar, Pakistan, China, and the United States, particularly in Arizona and Hawaii.
The Unique Beauty of Peridot
Peridot’s distinctive green colour ranges from yellowish-green to a deeper olive green, depending on the iron content within the crystal. Unlike other gemstones that owe their hues to trace impurities, peridot’s vibrant colour is a result of its intrinsic chemical composition. This means that peridot always exhibits its characteristic green shade, making it instantly recognizable and highly sought after.
One of the unique aspects of peridot is its double refraction property. When viewed under magnification, this optical effect causes light entering the stone to split into two rays, creating a mesmerizing, doubled appearance of facets. This phenomenon adds to the gemstone’s allure, giving it an almost otherworldly sparkle.
Historic Symbolism and Meaning of Peridot
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings. It is often linked to prosperity, happiness, and well-being. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm. Today, peridot is seen as a symbol of renewal and growth, making it a fitting choice for those embarking on new life journeys or seeking personal transformation.
For those born in August, peridot is said to bring good luck and harmony. Its vibrant green colour is also associated with nature and vitality, making it a perfect representation of summer’s lush landscapes and abundant energy.
Caring for Your Peridot Jewellery
Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it relatively durable but still requiring mindful care to maintain its brilliance. Here are some tips to keep your peridot jewellery looking its best:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to household cleaners, perfumes, and cosmetics can damage peridot. Always remove your peridot jewellery before using these substances.
- Clean Gently: Use a soft brush and mild soapy water to clean your peridot pieces. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers, as they can cause damage.
- Store Safely: To prevent scratches, store your peridot jewellery separately from other gemstones. Use a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box for added protection.
- Handle with Care: While peridot is suitable for everyday wear, it is best to avoid wearing it during activities that might expose it to hard knocks or abrasive surfaces.
Choosing the Perfect Peridot Jewellery
When selecting peridot jewellery, consider the following factors to ensure you choose a piece that showcases the gemstone’s natural beauty:
- Colour: Look for a vibrant, evenly distributed green colour. The most valuable peridots are those with a pure green hue without any brown or yellow undertones.
- Clarity: High-quality peridots have good clarity with minimal visible inclusions. Small inclusions are common, but they should not detract from the stone’s overall appearance.
- Cut: A well-cut peridot will enhance the stone’s natural brilliance and colour. Popular cuts for peridot include round, oval, and cushion shapes, which maximize the gem’s sparkle.
- Setting: Choose a setting that protects the peridot from damage while showcasing its beauty. Prong settings, bezel settings, and halo settings are all excellent choices for peridot jewellery.
Peridot in Modern Jewellery
Today, peridot’s vivid green hue makes it a popular choice for various types of jewellery, from rings and necklaces to earrings and bracelets. Its fresh and lively colour complements both casual and formal outfits, making it a versatile addition to any jewellery collection. Designers often pair peridot with other gemstones, such as diamonds or sapphires, to create stunning, eye-catching pieces that highlight the stone’s unique charm.
Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, symbolic meanings, or stunning beauty, peridot remains a timeless gemstone that continues to captivate and inspire. Celebrate the August birthstone by incorporating this radiant gem into your jewellery collection.
Fascinating Facts about Peridot
- Extraterrestrial Origins: Peridot is one of the few gemstones found in meteorites, specifically pallasite meteorites. This means some peridots come from outer space, making them truly cosmic gems.
- Historical Misidentification: Many ancient “emeralds” were actually peridots. Some historians now believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection to have been composed of peridot gemstones.
- Birthstone Status: Peridot is the official birthstone for August. It symbolizes strength and is believed to bring the wearer good fortune and peace.
- Ancient Egyptian Connection: The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea over 3,500 years ago. They called it the “gem of the sun” and believed it protected its wearer from night terrors.
- Large Specimens: Some of the largest peridot stones come from Zabargad, including specimens weighing over 300 carats. These large crystals are rare and highly valued by collectors.
- Hawaiian Legends: In Hawaii, peridot symbolizes the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess. Small peridots can often be found on the beaches near volcanic areas.
- Historical Healing Properties: Throughout history, peridot was believed to have healing powers. It was used as a remedy for various ailments and was thought to protect against evil spirits.
- Double Refraction: Peridot exhibits a property called double refraction. When you look through the stone, you can see doubled images of the opposite facets, adding to its unique visual appeal.
- Mohs Hardness: Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches, so it requires careful handling and storage.
- Symbol of Renewal: Peridot is often associated with renewal and growth. Its vibrant green colour is linked to nature and new beginnings, making it a popular gift for significant life events.
FAQs
What is the origin of the name “peridot”?
The name “peridot” is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “faridat,” which means gem. Another possible origin is the French word “peritot,” which means unclear, due to the presence of inclusions in the gem.
How can I tell if my peridot is genuine?
Genuine peridot has a distinct green colour that can range from yellowish-green to olive green. It has a vitreous (glass-like) luster and exhibits double refraction, causing facets to appear doubled under magnification. If in doubt, consult a certified gemologist.
Is peridot suitable for engagement rings?
While peridot can be used in engagement rings, it is less durable than harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. If you choose a peridot engagement ring, be sure to handle it with care and avoid wearing it during activities that might cause damage.
Can peridot change colour?
Peridot does not change colour. Its green hue is a result of its natural chemical composition, and it remains consistent under different lighting conditions.
What are some famous peridots in history?
One of the most famous collections of peridot is found in the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, Germany. The large peridot stones in the shrine were once thought to be emeralds.
How does peridot compare to other green gemstones?
Peridot is unique in that its green colour is intrinsic to the stone, whereas other green gemstones, like emeralds, get their colour from trace impurities. Peridot’s bright and vibrant green hue distinguishes it from the deeper green of emeralds and the varied greens of other gemstones like tourmaline and tsavorite garnet.
Design Your Custom Peridot Jewellery
At The Bench Jewellery, we take pride in helping you create custom jewellery that celebrates the unique beauty of peridot. Whether you’re looking for a custom peridot ring, necklace, or any other piece, our skilled gemologists in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Chilliwack are ready to bring your vision to life. Visit us today and let us craft a stunning peridot piece that will be cherished for a lifetime.