People born in August are unique in the fact that they have three August birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx.
The first is a unique, bright green gemstone formed under extreme conditions, often brought to Earth by meteorites that have traveled hundreds of thousands of miles through space. The second one, spinel is a deep red gem that was popular among ancient kings and emperors due to the fact it looks similar to rubies. Sardonyx, however, was the original birthstone for August and has a history dating back over 4,000 years!
This article is about this precious gemstone peridot, its history, properties, values and pricing, meanings, care and cleaning, and iconic pieces of peridot jewelry. Keep reading to learn more about these gorgeous gemstones and find the perfect gift for loved ones born in August.
History: purity and dedication to piousness, wise and fair
The word “peridot” derives from the Arabic “faridat” which means gem. This gem was highly prized among ancient cultures, often appearing in churches of Medieval Europe, in Priestly jewelry, and as a talisman with special protective powers.
Source: Paolocostagli 18kt white gold three-stone ring set with an emerald-cut peridot.
The ancient Romans even called it the “evening emerald” as its color remained bright and lustrous throughout the darkest of nights.
Today, many religious leaders wear signets of this gem to represent their purity and dedication to piousness.
This precious gem was thought to shield its owner from “terrors of the night” and expand ones ability to openly receive blessings from the Universe. Since this beautiful green gem was mainly worn by people in leadership positions, it is often indicative of people who were wise and fair.
Physical Features: vitreous luster, a “glass-like” shine and fairly hard
This gem is a variety of a mineral called olivine, having a chemical composition made up of iron and magnesium. The iron in this mineral is responsible for the rich, green color of peridots.
Although most specimens are green, this gem can be found in shades anywhere between clear, pale yellow, and dark, emerald green. Peridots are famous for their vitreous luster, meaning they give off a “glass-like” shine. In addition, they are a fairly hard gem, averaging about 6.5-7 on Mohs’ Scale.
Production and Locations: the Canary Islands, China, Brazil, Norway, Hawaii
Peridots are a variety of olivine and are considered a semi-precious metal. They can be found in the Canary Islands, China, Brazil, Norway, Hawaii, Myanmar, Australia, Pakistan, and South Africa, as well as several other places.
Smaller peridots (under 5 carats) can be found in the southwestern United States, although they are mainly used for production purposes. Several other exotic areas are known for the gem, as well. If you take a trip to Peridot Beach, Hawaii, the sands shimmers a gorgeous green in the sun, indicative of the gem.
The finest specimens of this gem can be found in many prestigious museums around the world. The most highly desirable gemstones are found in dangerous locales with ominous names such as “Island of Death” and “Snake Island.” With their supreme transparency and rich, green color, it is obvious why these quality gems are reserved for the finest institutions.
Value, Price, and Beauty: vary greatly but affordable
The value of this gemstone can vary greatly, with smaller specimens going for as low as $30.00 USD. However, depending on the quality of the gem and where it was sourced from, prices can go into the thousands of dollars.
This fiery green gem has been valued for its beauty by ancient and modern civilizations alike, still remaining a popular choice among jewelry enthusiasts. It is even thought that Cleopatra’s famous “emerald collection” was in fact not emerald at all, but the peridot stone.
Left: 18k Yellow Gold-Plated Sterling Silver Diamond Accent Two-Tone Gemstone and Tennis Bracelet, $90, SHOP NOW; Right: 14K Gold Oval Created or Genuine Gemstone Dangle Leverback Earrings, $285, SHOW NOW.
Meanings of the peridot stone: a crystal of positive power
It has long been thought that this gem is a crystal of positive power. It is a talisman for honoring love, the source of abundance, and can expand one’s ability to receive from energy the Universe.
This popular gem is often used in fine jewelry, with popular options being necklaces and rings. When used with the right intentions, it can also be used as a talisman to protect its owner from the “terrors of the night.”
Famous jewelry pieces composed by the peridot stone
Peridots have been famous throughout history, often used to decorate places of religious practice. For example, the famous “Three Holy Kings Shrine” in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral is thought to be decorated in over 200 carats of some of the world’s finest peridots!
In addition, the largest specimen in the world, weighing over 311.8 carats, can be found at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C.
Care and Maintenance
If you want your gemstone to look its best, it is imperative that you care for it and maintain it properly. When cleaning your specimen, it is important to use a soft, non abrasive brush and mild soap or water. Standard jewelry cleaner will also do the trick, just make sure to thoroughly rinse and dry your piece before donning it again.
One important thing to note about peridots is that they should never be cleaned using steam or an ultrasonic machine, as they are sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
Conclusion on peridot
In conclusion, peridots have been prized since ancient times, and remain a luxury in modern times. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one of these fine stones, you absolutely will not regret it. Hopefully, this article has given you the insight you need to find the perfect gift for an August-born loved one.
Thank you for reading this article about peridots, I hope it helps you get the information needed. Feel to share your thoughts below or check other articles on birthstones by month that we have published.
