Peridot is the contemporary birthstone for August, and in addition to it’s use in August birthstone jewelry is the gem designated to mark the 16th wedding anniversary. This particular precious stone is a variety of olivine which is a combination of 2 minerals, forsterite and foylite. It’s still quite uncertain where the word peridot originates from, whether it is derived from the French word which means unclear, peritot, or the Arabic word faridat, meaning gem. Whichever is true the gem was named peridot, by the French around the 18th century. Before then the Peridot gemstone was simply called topaz.
For 4000 years peridot has been mined as a gemstone and is even discussed in the Bible under the Hebrew name of, pitdah. Peridot is the national jewel of Egypt and was a favorite of Egyptians from at least 1500 B.C. It was named the “sun gem” because miners from long ago believed that it shone with a light that made the gemstone easy to locate. This attractive jewel is becoming wildly popular perhaps because of the historical legend identifying it as the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra.
Description of the Peridot Gemstone
Over the years this precious August gemstone has often been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone is usually described as a light sea green with tinges of yellow. Some gems confused with the peridot are garnets, apatite, zircon and emeralds, although these seldom have the appealing tint of yellow that looks so attractive with the peridot’s green color.
The Quality of Peridot Gems
Peridots having less than 15% iron and the trace elements nickel and chromium are considered to be the best quality. Peridot is mined in Mexico, Australia, Pakistan, Brazil, Germany, Ethiopia and the USA. In the past the finest quality peridot came from Egypt but some remarkable crystals have been found in Pakistan that are challenging this claim.. The gems discovered in Arizona are of inferior quality but are more plentiful, so making them much more affordable for many people. About 85 – 95% of global production is from Arizona. Gems from Pakistan and Egypt are much higher quality and rarer and thus are more valuable.
Mystical Powers of the Peridot
This gorgeous August birthstone is a symbol for success and dignity and it’s also thought of a shield for for all the body as it defends against negativity. It is also linked with stress reduction and relaxation. The Ancient Egyptians used this jewel to clean and heal the heart. Various sicknesses such as asthma and fever were thought to be cured by putting powdered peridot beneath the tongue. There is also a belief that setting this stone in gold will amplify its powers..
August Birthstone Jewelry
Peridot is a beautiful gemstone and is becoming widely fashionable. Peridot gemstones can be enjoyable collectors items and they make lovely August birthstone jewelry gifts.
Related posts:
- Peridot is the Birthstone for the Month of August
- Peridot Gemstone Jewelry: A Gift of Captivating Beauty and Elegance
- History of Peridot Gemstones
- How Modern Birthstone Jewelry Has Developed Through the Ages
- The Gemstone for December Birthstone Jewelry - Turquoise
- June Birthstone Jewelry - The Alexandrite
- The Different Types of Birthstone Pendants
- Ruby- The birthstone for July
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