August Birthstone: Peridot - The Green Gem of Abundance
The month of August brings with it a burst of vibrant colours and a warm, sunny ambiance. One of the most captivating aspects of this month is its beautiful birthstone, Peridot. Known for its mesmerising green hue, Peridot has long been cherished for its unique properties and symbolism. Let's delve into the fascinating world of the August birthstone and discover why it has captured the hearts of people for centuries.
A Gem with Ancient Origins:
Peridot's history stretches back to ancient times, where it was cherished by various cultures. The word "Peridot" has roots in the French word "peritot," meaning unclear, likely referring to the gem's inclusions and cloudiness. It is also known by the name "Olivine," derived from its olive-green colour. The oldest Peridot gemstones were found on an ancient Egyptian island called Zabargad (now St. John's Island or Zebirget) in the Red Sea. Egyptians referred to Peridot as the "Gem of the Sun," believing that it had special powers bestowed upon it by the sun god, Ra.
A Celestial Connection:
Peridot's colour has been linked to celestial phenomena throughout history. It is often associated with comets, as ancient Egyptians believed that Peridot crystals were gifts from the sky. The gem's green colour is also reminiscent of lush vegetation and the rejuvenating power of rain, connecting it to fertility and abundance. Some legends even claim that Peridot was Cleopatra's favourite gem, and it adorned her royal jewellery.
Gemological Properties:
Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine and is formed deep within the Earth's mantle. It belongs to the silicate mineral group and boasts a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewelry purposes. The gem's color ranges from yellowish-green to olive-green, with intensity varying based on the iron content present in the crystal structure.
Symbolism and Meanings:
Beyond its striking appearance, Peridot is associated with several meaningful attributes:
Abundance and Prosperity: As the "Gem of Abundance," Peridot is believed to attract prosperity, good fortune, and success into the lives of its wearers. It is considered a talisman of luck, especially for those pursuing financial growth and material gain.
Healing and Rejuvenation: In crystal healing practices, Peridot is thought to promote physical healing and vitality. It is said to alleviate stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, bringing a sense of renewal and positivity.
Harmony and Relationships: Peridot is associated with love and harmony, fostering understanding, and promoting healthy relationships. It is believed to enhance friendship, compassion, and loyalty among individuals.
Wearing Peridot:
Peridot's enchanting green colour complements a variety of metal settings, including gold, silver, and platinum. Jewellery pieces adorned with Peridot are versatile and can be incorporated into both formal and casual ensembles. From delicate rings and earrings to eye-catching necklaces and bracelets, Peridot jewellery adds a touch of nature's splendour to any outfit.
Caring for Peridot:
Proper care ensures that your Peridot jewellery remains beautiful for years to come. Avoid exposing Peridot to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or sudden temperature changes. Clean it gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush, ensuring all residues are removed for maximum brilliance.
As the birthstone for August, peridot jewellery serves as a remarkable gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a symbolic token for the arrival of newborns during this special month.
If you have a dream peridot jewellery piece in mind, we are here to bring your vision to life. Our team can sketch out ideas and showcase our extensive collection of stunning rubies. We also offer personalised sourcing for that one-of-a-kind peridot you desire.
Explore our exquisite range of peridot jewellery available for purchase online and in-store. We invite you to visit us at 24 St Quentin Avenue Claremont or contact us to learn more about our custom made service.