Unveiling the Beauty of Peridot: August's Birthstone

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As the summer sun reaches its peak and the vibrant landscapes come alive, August brings forth its own unique charm with the captivating peridot as its birthstone. This resplendent gem, sometimes called the "Evening Emerald," holds a fascinating history and a mesmerizing allure that has enchanted civilizations for centuries. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of peridot, exploring its origin, symbolism, and remarkable properties that make it a beloved gemstone for August-born individuals and gem enthusiasts alike.

  • bright green peridot pear, radiant, and maya drop pear

A Glance into History: From Olivine to Peridot

Peridot's story begins in the depths of the Earth's mantle, where it forms under extreme conditions in the company of volcanic activity and tectonic forces. While it is a gem-quality variety of olivine, peridot boasts an olive-green hue that ranges from a pale green to a rich, vivid grass-green, depending on the amount of iron present in its crystal structure.

Ancient Egyptians were among the first to discover and cherish peridot, mining it on the volcanic island of Zabargad (also known as St. John's Island) in the Red Sea. They considered the gem to be the "gem of the sun" and believed it possessed mystical powers and healing properties. Furthermore, Cleopatra herself was said to have been an avid collector of peridot, treasuring it above all other gems.

peridot stud earrings in yellow gold

Unearthing Peridot's Beauty

As the birthstone of August, peridot makes for a perfect gift for those born during this summery month. Its verdant charm complements warm-weather fashion and adds a touch of nature-inspired elegance to any jewelry collection. Whether set in a delicate necklace, a classic ring, or a stunning pair of earrings, Peridot's allure is sure to captivate and delight.

When selecting a peridot, keep an eye out for stones with a vibrant green hue and excellent clarity. Larger peridots without visible inclusions are particularly prized and can command higher values. To preserve its beauty, clean peridot jewelry gently with warm, soapy water and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Symbolism and Mythology

Throughout history, peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings and mystical beliefs. This gemstone is often linked to prosperity, abundance, and good fortune, making it a popular talisman for attracting wealth and success. Its lush green color also connects it to nature, growth, and rejuvenation, symbolizing the cycle of life and the power of transformation.

In ancient lore, peridot was believed to hold the power to ward off nightmares and promote peaceful sleep when worn as jewelry or placed under one's pillow. Additionally, it was thought to possess healing properties, particularly in matters related to the heart, bringing harmony to relationships and encouraging self-worth and emotional healing.

Fascinating Properties

Peridot's allure goes beyond its captivating appearance and historical significance; it also boasts some intriguing properties. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is reasonably durable, but it does require gentle care to avoid scratches and fractures. While most peridot is sourced from volcanic regions, it can also be found in meteorites, originating from space—a testament to its cosmic charm.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of peridot is its unique "double refraction" property, meaning that when light passes through the gem, it creates a captivating display of doubled lines or edges. This optical phenomenon adds to the gem's allure and makes it a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts and collectors.

In Conclusion

Peridot, with its alluring green hue and rich history, is a gemstone that has stood the test of time. From ancient civilizations to modern jewelry designs, its charm and symbolism continue to captivate and inspire. As the birthstone of August, it holds a special place in the hearts of those born during this month, and its vibrant allure makes it a beloved gem for jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. So, whether you're celebrating an August birthday or simply looking to add a touch of natural beauty to your collection, consider the captivating peridot—it's a gem that never fails to enchant.