All About Peridot: Your Guide to the August Birthstone's History, Properties, and Stunning Jewellery

 

Today, let's explore the enchanting world of peridot, the beautiful birthstone for August. With its vibrant green colour, peridot has been capturing the hearts of gem lovers and jewellers for centuries. At Marie Nicole Bijoux, we adore semiprecious stones, and peridot is one of our absolute favourites. Join us as we delve into the charm and significance of this stunning gemstone!

What is Peridot? Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, distinguished by its stunning green colour. Unlike other gemstones, which come in various colours, peridot is unique in its consistent green shade, ranging from a yellow-green to olive green. This colour is due to the iron content within the stone, making peridot one of the few gems that come in only one colour.

 

Natural Formation and Sources

Peridot forms deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. This gemstone can be found in lava, meteorites, and deep mantle rocks, making it a truly out-of-this-world treasure. Major sources of peridot include the United States (Arizona and Hawaii), Myanmar, Pakistan, and China.

Historical Significance of Peridot

The history of peridot is rich and fascinating, dating back to ancient times. The Egyptians referred to peridot as the "gem of the sun," believing it protected against nightmares and brought courage and wisdom. 

Peridot in Different Cultures

In Hawaiian culture, peridot is often associated with Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes. It's considered a sacred stone that represents the tears of the goddess. In medieval Europe, peridot was used to ward off evil spirits and was believed to have healing properties.

Peridot as a Birthstone Peridot is the birthstone for August and is associated with the zodiac sign Leo. It's a stone of compassion, believed to bring good health, restful sleep, and peace to relationships by balancing emotions and mind. This vibrant gemstone symbolizes strength and is often connected with themes of renewal and growth.

 

Symbolism and Meaning

The origin of the name ‘Peridot’ is not certain. Some believe the name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem, while the Oxford English Dictionary suggests it might be a variation of the Anglo–Norman word ‘pedoretés’ from the classical Latin word: pæderot meaning a kind of opal.  

Throughout history, peridot has been linked to various spiritual and healing properties. It's said to enhance confidence and assertiveness, inspiring creativity and eloquence. Many also believe that peridot can ward off negative energies, making it a protective stone.

Physical Properties of Peridot

Peridot's striking green colour can range from a pale yellow-green to a rich olive hue, depending on the amount of iron present. The most prized peridots are a pure, grass-green colour without any brown or yellow tints. This gem has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear but still requiring careful handling to avoid scratches.

Factors Affecting Colour

The colour intensity of peridot is influenced by the iron content within the stone. Higher iron content results in a deeper green colour. When selecting peridot jewellery, consider the colour’s saturation and purity, as these factors greatly affect the gemstone's beauty and value.

Famous Peridot Jewels and Locations

Peridot has graced many significant jewels throughout history, showcasing its timeless appeal. One of the most famous peridot collections is the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, adorned with 200 carats of peridot stones that were once believed to be emeralds.

Major Global Sources and Mining Locations

Peridot is mined in several countries, each offering unique characteristics:

• United States: The San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona is one of the most prolific sources of peridot. The stones from this region are known for their bright green colour and clarity.
• Myanmar (Burma): Burmese peridot is often regarded as some of the finest, prized for its deep green hue.
• Pakistan: Peridot from Pakistan, particularly the Kohistan region, is renowned for its vibrant colour and exceptional quality.
• China: In recent years, China has become a significant source of peridot, offering stones in various shades of green.

 

Peridot in Modern Jewellery Design Peridot's vibrant green hue and affordability make it a popular choice for contemporary jewellery designs. Its versatility allows it to be paired with various metals and gemstones, creating stunning pieces that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

 

 

Current Trends in Peridot Jewellery

In recent years, peridot has gained popularity in both fine and fashion jewellery. It is often featured in statement rings, delicate necklaces, and elegant earrings. Designers are exploring unique settings and combinations, such as mixing peridot with diamonds or contrasting gemstones like amethyst and blue topaz.

Popular Styles and Settings

• Solitaire Rings: A classic choice, showcasing the gemstone's natural beauty.
• Halo Settings: Surrounding peridot with smaller diamonds or gemstones to enhance its brilliance.
• Cluster Designs: Combining peridot with other stones for a colourful, vibrant look.
• Vintage and Antique Styles: Incorporating peridot into vintage-inspired pieces, reflecting its historical significance.

 

Benefits of Wearing Peridot

Wearing peridot is believed to bring a range of benefits, both physical and emotional. This gemstone is often associated with promoting balance, harmony, and overall well-being.

Metaphysical Properties and Believed Benefits

Peridot is said to have a calming effect on emotions, making it an excellent stone for those experiencing stress or anxiety. It’s also believed to help with clear thinking and decision-making, enhancing focus and clarity. In addition to its emotional benefits, some believe that peridot can aid in physical healing, particularly with issues related to the digestive system and skin.

 

Healing Properties and Emotional Effects

Many crystal enthusiasts use peridot to balance the heart chakra, promoting feelings of compassion and love. It is thought to dispel negative emotions and open the wearer to new experiences and relationships, making it a perfect stone for those looking to bring more positivity into their lives.

How to Care for Peridot Jewellery

To keep your peridot jewellery looking its best, proper care is essential. Although peridot is relatively durable, it should still be handled with care to prevent damage. Here are some tips to help you maintain the beauty of your peridot pieces:

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

1. Gentle Cleaning: Clean peridot jewellery with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Peridot is sensitive to acids and chemicals, so it's best to remove your jewellery when using household cleaners or swimming in chlorinated water.
3. Regular Checks: Inspect your peridot jewellery regularly for any signs of damage or loose settings. This helps ensure your pieces remain secure and in good condition.

Safe Storage Practices

Store your peridot jewellery separately from harder gemstones like diamonds to prevent scratches. Keeping it in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box can protect the stone from damage and prolong its lifespan.

Choosing the Perfect Peridot Jewellery Selecting the right peridot jewellery piece can be a delightful experience, especially when you know what to look for. Here are some tips to help you choose high-quality peridot stones:

 

Tips for Selecting High-Quality Peridot Stones

1. Colour: The most desirable peridots are bright, vibrant green without any brown or yellow undertones. Look for stones that have a pure, vivid hue.
2. Clarity: Peridot is typically eye-clean, meaning it has no visible inclusions. Choose stones with minimal inclusions, as they can affect the stone's brilliance.
3. Cut: A well-cut peridot will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its natural sparkle. Common cuts include round, oval, and cushion, but choose the one that best suits your style.
4. Size: Larger peridot stones can make a bold statement, but smaller ones are equally beautiful and often more affordable. Consider the size that best fits your preference and budget.

Custom Peridot Jewellery Options

At Marie Nicole Bijoux, while we offer several peridot jewellery pieces, we can also work with you to create a unique piece of jewellery.

How to Personalize Peridot Jewellery

Personalising your peridot jewellery can include engraving meaningful dates or initials, selecting a unique setting, or combining peridot with other stones that hold significance. This makes your piece not just beautiful, but also deeply personal.

Peridot Jewellery for Different Occasions

Peridot jewellery is versatile and suits a variety of occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just because, there's a peridot piece for every moment.

Ideal Gifts and Occasions for Peridot Jewellery

• Birthdays: As the birthstone for August, peridot jewellery makes a thoughtful and personalized birthday gift.
• Anniversaries: Peridot is traditionally given on the 16th anniversary, symbolizing harmony and new beginnings.
• Everyday Elegance: Peridot's bright colour adds a touch of elegance to everyday wear, making it perfect for daily accessories.

How to Style Peridot Pieces

Peridot's vibrant green hue pairs beautifully with both warm and cool colours, making it easy to style. For a classic look, pair peridot with neutral tones like white or beige. For a bolder statement, it can be paired with contrasting colours like purple or blue. Whether you're dressing up for a special event or adding a pop of colour to a casual outfit, peridot jewellery offers endless styling possibilities.

Investing in Peridot Jewellery

Peridot is not only a beautiful gemstone but also a wise investment. Its unique characteristics and increasing popularity make it a valuable addition to any jewellery collection.

Value and Market Considerations

Peridot's value is influenced by its colour, clarity, and size. High-quality stones with deep green colour and few inclusions are more valuable. As demand for coloured gemstones rises, peridot's value is likely to appreciate, making it a smart investment choice.

Long-Term Care and Preservation of Value

To maintain your peridot jewellery’s beauty and value, proper care is essential. Store peridot pieces separately to avoid scratches, clean them gently, and have them professionally inspected regularly to ensure settings remain secure.

FAQs About Peridot

Common Questions and Answers About Peridot

1. What is peridot's origin?
   Peridot is a gem-quality variety of olivine, typically found in volcanic rocks.
2. Can peridot change colour?
   Peridot's colour is stable and does not change over time, though its appearance can be enhanced with proper care and cleaning.
3. Is peridot a durable gemstone?
   With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is relatively durable but should be protected from harsh impacts and scratches.

Misconceptions and Clarifications

• Misconception: Peridot is often mistaken for emerald due to its green colour.
  Clarification: While both are green, peridot's hue is typically more yellow-green, and it lacks the inclusions common in emeralds.
• Misconception: Peridot is always expensive.
  Clarification: While high-quality peridot can be valuable, it is generally more affordable than many other gemstones, making it accessible for various budgets.

Peridot is a gemstone of beauty, history, and symbolism, making it a cherished choice for jewellery lovers. Whether you're drawn to its vibrant colour, historical significance, or the personal connection as a birthstone, peridot offers something special for everyone. Explore our Peridot jewellery collection and find the perfect piece that resonates with you.