Peridot Birthstone Origins & History
The August Birthstone Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, also called chrysolite which forms deep inside the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. It’s green-yellowish colors are one of the most sparkling and clearest of Natures shades and is mainly made up of olivine, iron and magnesium, ranging from lime-green to more deep olive-green hues, depending on the percentage of iron in the crystal’s structure.
Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other gems such as topaz and emerald. Known as “the gem of the sun” to ancient Egyptians, Peridot was first extracted from Topazios (a supposed origin for the name topaz), a small volcanic island in the Red Sea, now known as St. John’s Island or Zabargad Island, where actually peridot was mined about 300 years B.C..
Peridot is also often known as the “evening emerald” for its unique capacity to sparkle even in artificial light as well as natural light. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral is decorated with 200 carats of gems that were believed to be emeralds but are, in fact, the August birthstone, peridot.
Topazios, now known as St. John’s Island or Zabargad Island
The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral
Peridot August Birthstone Origins & History
Although most of the peridot seen in jewellery today comes from sources such as China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States, some journied to Earth on meteorites while others are found in exotic corners of the earth like Hawaii, Guam, Norway and Floreana Island in the Galapagos, where the sands shimmer a luminous green. Just bear in mind that these beaches do not contain gem-quality peridot, but still are an incredible sight for their green hues.
Today, the San Carlos Apache Reservation in southeastern Arizona, USA, is responsible for the majority of the world’s peridot supply. Near the small town of Peridot, Arizona, the indian owned mines hold the world largest modern cache of this bright green crystal. Here, peridot can be found embedded in basalt in the surrounding desert mesas, and is sold as souvenirs in local gift shops.
Mahana Beach, Hawaii, USA, with it's green sands made up of olivine mineral
Different shades of green in Peridot
Peridot’s Properties
Peridot is a type II clarity stone with a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. That means that the August birthstone is softer than many other gems and those wearing it daily should use caution to avoid damaging it. When storing, keep gems away from harder stones and jewelry to prevent scratching.
How valuable is Peridot?
The value of peridot can vary from crystal to crystal. Clarity, cut and color all play a part in finding the right price for peridot. Per carat, the price can span from £20- £400 pounds. Stones that are the closest to pure green tend to be more desired, thus more expensive. Peridot that have brown or yellow hints to them tend to be valued at lower prices, making them more affordable.
The largest cut peridot olivine is a 310-carat (62-gram) specimen in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C, originating from Zagbargad Island in Egypt.
The largest cut peridot olivine specimen in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C
Heart & Solar Plexus Chakras - Energy Colours
August Birthstone Meanings, Symbolism and Folklore
The Peridot is the traditionally classic August birthstone and the gemstone that commemorates the 16th wedding anniversary.
Because of it’s yellowish tints, the peridot brings the healing properties of it’s green energies especially to the physical aspect of our bodies. So, the August birthstone has direct effect on the Solar Plexus (governend by yellow energy) where our vitality comes from and also on the heart chakra Anahata (governend by green energy).
It is said that placing a peridot gemstone at the level of the Solar Plexus, the nervous emotional tension can be calmed and dispelled. The august birthstone can also help eliminate certain negative emotions like anger and can purify and eliminate anxieties. That’s why the ancient Egyptians believed it protected those who wore it from the terrors of the night. It’s also rumored to repair damaged relationships and even aid the success of marriages, because it calms the ego and certain states of jealousy.
Peridot is a gemstone that is also great for recentering your focus. Gazing at the yellow-green hue of peridot is said to help stimulate your mind and find your mental balance.
It’s also to no surprise that there’s global symbolism and folklore surrounding this enigmatic gemstone. Throughout time, the August Birthstone has long been associated with the sun and has been a key to fighting darkness. Ancient Romans referred to the Peridot as the “evening Emerald” since its shimmer never diminishes and shines brightly even under candlelight.
Another interesting legend noted throughout history is one in which, according to Hawaiian religious beliefs, peridots are the tears of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes and the creator of the Hawaiian Islands.
Buying & Gifting August Birthstone Jewellery
The precious peridot is worthy of any jewellery collection, whether or not you can claim it as your birthstone. Energizing and focusing, peridot gifts are the perfect pick-me-up for that special someone on their special day.
August Birthstone Jewellery Set with Peridot Studs and Charm Necklace
August Birthstone Necklace – Peridot Gemstone Charm in Sterling Silver
August Birthstone Ring with Peridot in Sterling Silver
Peridot’s energetic color, incredible origins and great prices make this gemstone a perfect addition to any collection. From earrings and rings to necklaces or jewellery sets, we’re confident that we peaqued your interest in this one-of-a-kind green august birthstone.
