The Green Delight of Peridot Birthstone for August.
Step into the enchanting world of August birthstones with the vibrant and mesmerising Peridot. As one of the rare gemstones that occur only in one colour, Peridot stands out with its stunning olive-green hue. This elegant gem is believed to have mystical powers, offering protection, success, and good luck to its wearers. Let's take a look at the mysteries of the Peridot birthstone, uncovering its fascinating history, symbolism, and healing properties. Whether you're an August baby looking to embrace your birthstone or simply captivated by the allure of gemstones, this blog is sure to leave you spellbound. Discover the secrets held within this green delight and learn how to incorporate it into your jewellery collection for a touch of natural beauty and celestial energy.
History and symbolism of the Peridot Birthstone
The Peridot birthstone has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. This captivating gemstone, known for its distinctive olive-green hue, has long been associated with various cultures and civilizations around the world.
One of the earliest recorded uses of Peridot dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was mined on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. The Egyptians revered Peridot for its believed ability to ward off the "evil eye" and used it extensively in their jewellery and religious artefacts. In fact, some scholars believe that the "emeralds" adorning the tomb of Cleopatra were actually Peridots, as the ancient Egyptians often used the terms interchangeably.
Throughout history, Peridot has been highly prized and sought after by royalty and the elite. The ancient Romans, Greeks, and Persians all coveted Peridot for its mesmerising beauty and perceived mystical powers. In the Middle Ages, Peridot was believed to have the ability to dispel nightmares and promote restful sleep, making it a popular choice for religious jewellery and amulets.
Characteristics and properties of the Peridot Birthstone
Peridot is a unique gemstone in the sense that it is the only gemstone that occurs in a single colour - a stunning olive-green hue. This distinctive colour is the result of the presence of iron in the gem's chemical composition, which gives Peridot its captivating and vibrant appearance.
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, which is a silicate mineral that is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Peridot stacking ring
The gem is formed deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity, often found in lava flows and meteorites.
One of the defining characteristics of Peridot is its hardness on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 6.5 to 7. This makes it a relatively durable gemstone, suitable for everyday wear in jewellery. Additionally, Peridot is known for its unique double-refractive property, which means that light passing through the gem is split into two separate rays, creating a subtle and captivating visual effect.
The significance of the Peridot Birthstone for August-born individuals
Peridot is the official birthstone for the month of August, making it a particularly special and meaningful gem for those born during this time. The connection between Peridot and the month of August is believed to have originated in ancient times, when the gemstone was associated with the sun and the harvest season.
For August-born individuals, the Peridot birthstone is said to represent a range of positive attributes, including growth, renewal, and prosperity. The gem's vibrant green hue is often interpreted as a symbol of new beginnings, as well as a connection to the natural world and the cycle of life.
In addition to its symbolic significance, Peridot is also believed to have a range of metaphysical and healing properties that can benefit August-born individuals. The gem is said to promote inner peace, balance, and personal growth, making it a powerful talisman for those seeking to embrace their unique astrological energy and live more fulfilling lives.
Famous Peridot Birthstone jewellery and their stories
Throughout history, Peridot has been a beloved gemstone among royalty, celebrities, and influential figures, with many famous pieces of Peridot jewellery capturing the imagination of the public.
One of the most renowned Peridot pieces is the Peridot Parure, a stunning set of jewellery that belonged to Empress Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III. The parure, which includes a necklace, earrings, and a tiara, features a stunning array of Peridots set in intricate gold designs. The Peridot Parure is a testament to the enduring allure of this captivating gemstone and its ability to captivate the hearts and minds of the elite.
Another famous Peridot piece is the "Palermo Peridot," a massive 100-carat Peridot that was discovered in Burma (now Myanmar) in the 1990s. This remarkable gemstone, which is one of the largest Peridots ever found, was named after the city of Palermo, where it was first showcased. The Palermo Peridot is a true testament to the rarity and beauty of this unique birthstone.
Peridot wide band ring with wave stamped detail
How to care for Peridot Birthstone jewellery
Caring for Peridot birthstone jewellery is relatively straightforward, but it's important to follow a few key guidelines to ensure the longevity and beauty of your precious pieces.
One of the most important things to remember when caring for Peridot is to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or harsh cleaning agents.
These substances can damage the delicate structure of the gemstone, causing it to become dull or discoloured. Instead, use a mild, non-abrasive soap and warm water to clean your Peridot jewellery, and be sure to rinse it thoroughly.
It's also important to store your Peridot jewellery properly, away from other gemstones or metals that could scratch the surface. Ideally, you should keep your Peridot pieces in a soft, padded jewellery box or pouch to protect them from damage. Additionally, avoid exposing your Peridot jewellery to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can also cause discoloration or fading over time.
Different shades and variations of the Peridot Birthstone
While Peridot is primarily known for its distinctive olive-green hue, there are actually a range of different shades and variations of this captivating gemstone. The colour of Peridot can vary depending on the specific composition and origin of the stone, as well as the way it is cut and polished.
One of the most sought-after variations of Peridot is the "Burmese Peridot," which is known for its deep, rich green colour with hints of gold or yellow. These Peridots are prized for their exceptional clarity and brilliance, and they are often found in high-end jewellery and gemstone collections.
Another variation of Peridot is the "Siberian Peridot," which is characterized by its vibrant, lime-green hue. These Peridots are typically found in volcanic regions of Russia and are highly valued for their unique and striking appearance. In addition to these two main variations, Peridot can also be found in shades of olive-green, yellowish-green, and even brownish-green, depending on the specific mineral composition and geological conditions in which they were formed.
Popular myths and legends surrounding the Peridot Birthstone
The Peridot birthstone has long been the subject of numerous myths and legends, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual significance that this gemstone has held throughout history.
One of the most enduring myths surrounding Peridot is the belief that it was the "gem of the sun," and that it was formed from the tears of the goddess Isis as she wept over the death of her husband, Osiris. This legend has been passed down through generations, and it is said that the Peridot's vibrant green hue is a reflection of the sun's rays.
Another popular myth is the belief that Peridot has the power to ward off "evil spirits" and protect its wearer from negative energy. This belief has its roots in ancient Egyptian and Greek cultures, where Peridot was often used in amulets and talismans to provide protection and good luck. Even today, many people believe that wearing Peridot can help to promote inner peace, balance, and personal growth.
The healing and metaphysical properties of the Peridot Birthstone
In addition to its rich history and symbolic significance, the Peridot birthstone is also believed to possess a range of healing and metaphysical properties that can benefit its wearers.
One of the primary metaphysical properties associated with Peridot is its ability to promote personal growth, self-awareness, and inner balance. The gem is said to help its wearer to let go of negative emotions, such as anger, jealousy, and resentment, and to cultivate a more positive and harmonious outlook on life.
Peridot is also believed to have a strong connection to the heart chakra, the energy centre in the body responsible for love, compassion, and emotional well-being. By helping to open and balance the heart chakra, Peridot is said to enhance emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to form deep, meaningful connections with others.
In terms of physical healing properties, Peridot is often associated with the relief of digestive issues, such as heartburn, indigestion, and stomach ulcers. The gem is also believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, making it a useful tool for reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
Triple stack