August Birthstone: Peridot
This birthstone is known for its ability to form under some of the most extreme conditions found on Earth. Peridot can be found in hardened lava that helps it move up closer to the surface from the depths of Earth’s mantle. Sometimes it can even be found, albeit mostly in trace amounts, in meteorites that crash into the surface of the planet from outer space. These deposits from outer space can date as far back as 4 billion years ago.
At its core, peridot is the yellowish/greenish variant of the mineral olivine. It is commonly given as a celebration of a 16th wedding anniversary. Peridot is usually associated with prosperity, good fortune, and wealth. Some of the other meanings drawn from this grass-colored gemstone are improved memory, fighting off insomnia or bleeding, and to ease the process of labor and delivery. Peridot also coincides with feelings of love and happiness.
Many cultures throughout history have loved and respected peridot. As early as 200 BCE, the stone could be found in priests’ jewelry. Later, it began to appear in chalices and in the building of churches. Most notable, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s famed Cologne (Köln) Cathedral. There was, unfortunately some confusion regarding peridot as it was likely mistaken for emerald when the German’s were using it, as well as possibly being a large portion of Cleopatra’s emerald collection.
Historically, peridot has been found and mined in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and a couple places in the United States. Peridot Beach in Hawaii is world-renowned for the green hue of the sands due to heavy peridot deposits; however, Arizona is home to one of the largest deposits in the world.
Peridot ranks as a 6.5-7 on Mohr’s Scale of Hardness, meaning it is softer than a lot of the gemstones commonly used in jewelry. Because of this, you’ll want to be careful when storing it among the harder gemstone pieces in your collection. When it comes to cleaning, all you need is warm water, mild soap, and a soft-bristled brush or soft cloth.
Shop CLT Jewels today for the best selection of antique and vintage estate jewelry. Stop by Malak Jewelers today to browse our collection of peridot jewelry, other gemstones, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, 22k gold, estate jewelry, rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and other fine jewelry. We are located in South Charlotte, North Carolina, in The Arboretum Shopping Center at the corner of Providence Road and Pineville-Matthews / Highway 51. We are open from 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday.