August Birthstone
It’s most famous as the birthstone for August but there is more to the peridot than that. This gemstone has an interesting history and is one of the few stones to come in a single color – green.
Michelle Jo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
What is Peridot?
Peridot is the better known name we use for olivine, a mineral created deep within the Earth and thrust to the surface by volcanic activity. Peridot and diamond are the only stones created in the earth’s mantle; the rest form in the crust. Most peridot stones are a lime-green but can range from yellow-green to olive-green to a brownish green. The depth of the color is related to the amount of iron it has- the more iron, the lighter the color. Like many stones, the peridot was often misidentified before gem identification methods were perfected. Often these stones were thought to be emeralds.
Peridot History
Ancient Egyptian society considered the peridot the “gem of the sun” and they were used in talismans. They believed in the stones properties of peace, balance, happiness, prosperity, and compassion. It is still the national gem of Egypt today. In addition to being the August birthstone, the peridot is often given to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary. Since it measures 6.5 -7 Mohs hardness scale it is a fairly durable stone.
Where is Peridot Found?
The peridot is found in Mexico, Norway, China, Russia and many other countries. The current source for most peridot today, however, is in Arizona while Brazil and South Africa source some of the finest of these stones.
The largest known peridot on record is a 310 carat rock currently at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
*Please note that all metaphysical/ healing properties are for informational/entertainment purposes and do not constitute advice or recommendation concerning the treatment of physical, mental, or emotional medical conditions. The Jewelry Junket does not guarantee the validity of any of such statements.
