The Unique and Beautiful Peridot: August Birthstone

The History of Peridot

Peridot is a stunning gemstone with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It is the birthstone for the month of August and is known for its vibrant green color. The name „peridot“ is believed to have originated from the Arabic word „faridat“ which means „gem“. This gemstone has been cherished by many cultures throughout history, and has been used in jewelry and other decorative items.

The earliest recorded use of peridot was in Ancient Egypt, where it was known as the „gem of the sun“. The Egyptians believed that peridot had magical properties and was a symbol of the sun god, Ra. It was often used in jewelry and amulets worn by the pharaohs. The Egyptians also believed that peridot could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to its wearer.

The Romans also valued peridot and called it „evening emerald“ because of its bright green color. It was believed to have healing powers and was often used to treat ailments such as asthma and depression. The Romans also used peridot in their jewelry, and it was a popular choice for amulets and talismans.

During the Middle Ages, peridot was highly prized by the Crusaders who brought it back to Europe from their travels in the Middle East. It was believed to have healing powers and was used to treat liver diseases and gallstones. In medieval Europe, peridot was also known as „chrysolite“ and was believed to have the power to dispel fear and sadness.

The Physical and Metaphysical Properties of Peridot

Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine and is composed of iron, magnesium, and silica. It has a hardness of 6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a durable gemstone for everyday wear. The color of peridot ranges from yellow-green to olive-green, with the most desirable being a bright, lime-green color.

Aside from its physical properties, peridot is also believed to have many metaphysical properties. It is often referred to as the „gem of the sun“ due to its vibrant color and is believed to bring warmth, joy, and abundance to its wearer. It is also said to have a calming effect on the mind and can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

Peridot is also known as a stone of transformation and is believed to help its wearer let go of negative patterns and behaviors. It is said to promote personal growth, self-confidence, and courage. It is also believed to enhance one’s intuition and spiritual awareness.

Many healers and crystal enthusiasts also believe that peridot can help with physical ailments such as digestive issues, heart problems, and respiratory illnesses. It is also believed to have a detoxifying effect on the body and can help with skin problems and allergies.

The Unique Formation of Peridot

Peridot is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. It is often found in lava flows, and some of the world’s largest deposits of peridot can be found in Hawaii. Peridot aventurine crystal can also be found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that can originate from outer space.

One of the unique features of peridot is that it can only be found in one color – green. Unlike other gemstones, peridot does not come in different colors or shades. This is due to the presence of iron in its composition, which gives it its distinct green hue.

Peridot crystals are often found in igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro. They can also be found in sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and limestone. Most peridot crystals are small and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. However, some exceptional peridot crystals have been found that are several centimeters long.

The Uses of Peridot in Jewelry

Peridot has been used in jewelry for centuries and continues to be a popular choice among gemstone enthusiasts. Its bright green color adds a pop of color to any piece of jewelry, making it a versatile gemstone for both casual and formal wear.

Peridot is often used as the center stone in rings, necklaces, and earrings, and is also used as an accent stone in jewelry pieces. It pairs well with other gemstones such as diamonds, amethyst, and citrine, and adds a unique touch to any jewelry design.

Aside from its use in traditional jewelry, peridot is also used in