Peridot: Illuminating August with Green Brilliance

Why Peridot is the August Birthstone

Peridot, with its vibrant green hue, has been designated as the birthstone for August due to a confluence of historical, cultural, and symbolic factors.

Historically, peridot has been prized for millennia. Its association with ancient Egypt is particularly notable. The Egyptians, fascinated by its luminous green color, believed it to be the Symbol of the Sun. Its vibrant green color was associated with the life-giving properties of the sun. Culturally, green has long been linked to growth, renewal, and harmony. This solar connection aligns with the fiery, energetic qualities often attributed to the month of August. Moreover, the gem's discovery in volcanic rocks further reinforces its association with heat and passion.

Even as their belief, peridot is a symbol for Protection from Evil. They believed that peridot could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. In addition, the Egyptians attributed healing properties to peridot, especially for conditions affecting the heart and lungs. Furthermore, as a rare and stunning gem, peridot was a symbol of wealth and status, allowing the wealthy to distinguish themselves from others.

These concepts resonate with the flourishing nature of August, a month characterized by abundant life and the peak of summer. Peridot's verdant color thus symbolizes the vitality and optimism often associated with this time of year.

In essence, peridot's rich history, its connection to solar energy, and its symbolic resonance with the attributes of August converge to make it the quintessential birthstone for this month.

What is the origin of the word "peridot"?

The exact origin of the word "peridot" is still debated among experts. However, there are two main theories:

1. Arabic origin: One theory suggests that the word might have derived from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "gem."
2. Greek origin: Another possibility is that it comes from the Greek words "peri" (around) and "do" (give), suggesting something given in abundance.

It's important to note that these are just theories, and the true etymology of the word remains uncertain.

Where does peridot come from?

Peridot is a unique gemstone formed under intense pressure and heat, primarily found in:

• Volcanic rocks: It's brought to the Earth's surface through volcanic eruptions.
• Meteorites: Rarely, peridot can also be found in these celestial bodies.

Major Sources of Peridot

While peridot can be found in various locations, some of the most significant sources include:

• San Carlos Apache Reservation, Arizona, USA: This is the world's largest peridot deposit.
• Myanmar (Burma): Known for producing high-quality peridot.
• Pakistan: Offers significant peridot deposits.
• China: A major producer of peridot.
• Other locations: Australia, Brazil, and Zambia also contribute to the global peridot supply.

It's important to note that while peridot is found in these regions, the actual mining and extraction processes can be complex and vary greatly depending on the specific location.

What are the different types of peridot?

While there aren't distinct "types" of peridot like other gemstones, the quality and value of peridot are primarily determined by its:

• Color: The most prized peridot has a pure, vivid green color. However, the color can range from yellowish-green to olive green.
• Clarity: Like most gemstones, peridot with fewer inclusions (internal flaws) is generally more valuable.
• Cut: The cut of the peridot can significantly affect its brilliance and overall appearance.
• Carat weight: Larger peridot stones are rarer and consequently more valuable.
• Origin: Peridot from certain locations, like Changbai, China, is often considered of higher quality due to its specific characteristics.

So, while there aren't specific names for different types of peridot, these factors influence its overall classification and value.

How can I tell if my gemstone is real peridot?

While it might be challenging to definitively identify a gemstone without professional equipment, here are some key characteristics of peridot that can help you distinguish it from other gems:

Color

• Unique Green Hue: Peridot has a distinct yellowish-green or olive green color that is often described as "lime green."
• Consistency: The color of peridot remains consistent under different lighting conditions.

Clarity

• Inclusions: Peridot often contains small inclusions, which are natural characteristics of the gemstone.
• Avoidance of Flawless Stones: If a peridot appears completely flawless, it's likely a synthetic or imitation.

Hardness

• Mohs Hardness Scale: Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7, which is relatively hard. You can scratch the stone with a knife to get a general idea of its hardness, but be cautious as this can damage the stone.

Other Characteristics

• Magnetic Properties: Peridot contains iron, so it can be slightly magnetic.
• Double Refraction: When viewed through a loupe, peridot exhibits double refraction, meaning you'll see a double image of objects through the stone.

Important Note: These methods are basic and might not be foolproof. For accurate identification, it's always recommended to consult a professional gemologist.