Peridot Birthstone
Peridot holds a special significance as a birthstone for those born in August, along with two other stones, spinel and sardonyx. It carries unique qualities that make it a meaningful and fitting birthstone for August-born individuals.
As a birthstone, peridot symbolizes positive energy, growth, and renewal. When worn by August-born people, peridot is thought to enhance their natural strengths, such as their warmth, creativity, and generosity.
In addition to its spiritual associations, peridot is a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those celebrating an August birthday or significant milestones during this month.
Paolocostagli 18kt white gold three-stone ring set with an emerald-cut peridot.
A Long History
The term “peridot” originates from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning gem. Highly valued among ancient societies, this gemstone often adorned medieval European churches, priestly jewelry, and talismans endowed with unique protective powers.
Ancient Romans referred to peridot as the “evening emerald” due to its enduring brightness and luster even in the darkest hours. Today, many religious leaders wear signets featuring this gem to symbolize their purity and commitment to their faith.
Believed to protect its wearer from the “terrors of the night” and enhance their capacity to receive universal blessings, peridot was primarily worn by individuals in leadership roles, signifying their wisdom and fairness.
Peridot Properties: Striking Green, Vitreous Luster, Fairly Hard
What is a peridot? Peridot is a vibrant green gemstone, a variety of the mineral olivine, consisting of iron and magnesium. Known for its vitreous luster and “glass-like” shine, peridot is commonly used in jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Peridot Color
What color is peridot? Peridot is a striking green gemstone, with hues ranging from pale yellowish-green to dark emerald green. The intensity of its color depends on the iron content within the mineral.
Peridot’s unique and vibrant green shades have been admired since ancient times, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Peridot Hardness
Peridot exhibits a moderate hardness, ranking 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. This level of hardness makes it suitable for various types of jewelry, as it can withstand daily wear and tear.
However, it is still essential to treat peridot with care to maintain its brilliance and prevent damage.
Locations: The Canary Islands, China, Brazil, Norway, Hawaii
Peridots are a variety of olivine and are considered a semi-precious gemstone. They can be found in the Canary Islands, China, Brazil, Norway, Hawaii, Myanmar, Australia, Pakistan, and South Africa, as well as several other places.
The finest specimens are showcased in prestigious museums worldwide, with the most desirable gemstones originating from perilous locales with ominous names like “Island of Death” and “Snake Island.”
Their exceptional transparency and rich, green color make these high-quality gems highly sought after.
As a semi-precious stone, smaller peridots (under 5 carats) can be found in the southwestern United States, predominantly for production purposes.
Several other exotic locations are also known for the gem, such as Peridot Beach, Hawaii, where the sand glimmers a beautiful green in sunlight.
Peridot Price: Affordable
How much is peridot worth? Peridot’s value can vary significantly, with smaller specimens available for as low as $30.00 USD. However, prices can escalate into the thousands depending on the gem’s quality and origin.
Is Peridot Expensive?
Peridot is not typically considered an expensive gemstone. It is more affordable compared to other gemstones like emeralds or rubies.
However, the value of a peridot increases with its color saturation, clarity, and size. Rich green hues with fewer inclusions and larger carat weights are more desirable and consequently more expensive.
In addtion, its unique beauty and vibrant color make it a popular choice for jewelry enthusiasts, especially as a birthstone for those born in August.
Peridot Stone Meaning: A Crystal of Positive Power
What does peridot mean? Peridot has long been considered a crystal of positive power, serving as a talisman to honor love and abundance, and enhancing one’s ability to receive energy from the universe.
This gemstone is commonly used in fine jewelry such as necklaces and rings and, when utilized with the right intentions, can protect its owner from the “terrors of the night.”
Peridot Healing Properties and Benefits
Peridot is prized for its healing properties, promoting spiritual growth, emotional balance, and mental clarity. Associated with the heart chakra, it fosters love, compassion, and forgiveness.
Peridot is believed to alleviate stress, support physical health, and imbue a sense of tranquility, making it a valuable companion for overall well-being.
1. Peridot Spiritual Meaning
Peridot is believed to facilitate spiritual growth and self-awareness. It helps to release negative patterns and old traumas, promoting forgiveness and acceptance.
This gemstone encourages a deeper connection to one’s inner wisdom and intuition, fostering personal transformation and self-discovery.
2. Physical Healing Properties
Peridot is thought to support overall health and vitality. It is believed to aid in digestion, stimulate the metabolism, and promote detoxification.
Additionally, peridot may help alleviate issues related to the heart, lungs, and skin, contributing to improved physical well-being.
3. Mental Healing Properties and Benefits
As a stone of positivity and emotional balance, peridot is said to help reduce stress, anxiety, and negative emotions. By instilling a sense of calm and tranquility, it enhances mental clarity, focus, and problem-solving abilities.
Peridot also encourages self-confidence, motivation, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
4. Peridot Metaphysical Properties
Peridot is closely associated with the heart chakra, which governs love, compassion, and emotional well-being. By balancing and activating this energy center, peridot helps to cultivate harmonious relationships, both with oneself and others.
It also facilitates the flow of energy between the upper and lower chakras, promoting overall energetic balance and alignment.
Peridot vs Emerald
In brief, peridot is more affordable and features a vibrant green hue, while emerald is generally more expensive and is known for its rich, deep green color. They are two beautiful green gemstones that differ in color, hardness, price, and origin.
Color: Peridot boasts a vibrant green hue ranging from pale yellowish-green to dark emerald green, with the intensity depending on the iron content within the mineral. Emeralds, on the other hand, exhibit a rich, deep green color with varying degrees of blue or yellow undertones, depending on the presence of chromium and vanadium.
Hardness: Peridot has a moderate hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, while emeralds are slightly harder, scoring 7.5-8. However, emeralds often have inclusions, which can make them more prone to chipping or breaking.
Price: Peridot is generally more affordable than emerald, with lower-quality specimens starting at around $30.00 USD. In contrast, emeralds, particularly those with vivid color and few inclusions, can command significantly higher prices.
Origins: While both gemstones are found in various locations worldwide, peridot is primarily sourced from places like the Canary Islands, China, Brazil, and Myanmar. Emeralds are predominantly mined in Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.
How to Use Peridot Stones?
Peridot stones can be used in various ways to harness their healing and metaphysical properties. Here are some suggestions on how to incorporate peridot into your daily life:
1. Wear as Jewelry
Wearing peridot in the form of rings, necklaces, bracelets, or earrings is an excellent way to keep the stone’s positive energy close to your body.
Jewelry not only showcases the gem’s beauty but also enables you to benefit from its healing properties throughout the day.
2. Meditation
Hold a peridot stone in your hand or place it near you during meditation to enhance spiritual growth, intuition, and self-awareness. The stone’s energy can help you connect with your inner wisdom and facilitate personal transformation.
3. Chakra Balancing
Place peridot on your heart chakra during energy healing or chakra balancing sessions. This can help stimulate the flow of energy, promote emotional healing, and foster harmonious relationships.
4. Home Decor
Incorporate peridot stones into your living space as decorative items or in crystal grids. Their presence can help create a calming atmosphere, attract positive energy, and protect against negativity.
5. Carry in Your Pocket or Purse
Keep a small peridot stone in your pocket or purse to benefit from its positive energy and protective qualities throughout the day.
6. Use as a Talisman
Place a peridot stone in a small pouch, under your pillow, or near your workspace to protect against negative energies, relieve stress, and invite harmony.
Note: The use of peridot or any other gemstone as a complementary therapy should not replace conventional medical treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for any serious health concerns.
How to Cleanse and Charge Peridot Stones?
Remember to cleanse and charge your peridot stones periodically to maintain their energy and effectiveness.
You can cleanse them by placing them in moonlight or sunlight, smudging with sage or incense, or using other cleansing crystals like selenite or clear quartz. Charge the stones by setting your intention and connecting with their energy.
Iconic Peridot Jewelry Pieces
Throughout history, peridots have been used to adorn religious sites, such as Germany’s Cologne Cathedral’s “Three Holy Kings Shrine,” which is believed to be decorated with over 200 carats of the world’s finest peridots.
The largest known specimen, weighing over 311.8 carats, is housed in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C.
Proper Care
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure your peridot gemstone maintains its brilliance.
To clean your peridot, use a soft, non-abrasive brush and mild soap or water. Standard jewelry cleaner is also effective; just be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry your piece before wearing it again.
It is crucial to note that peridots should not be cleaned using steam or ultrasonic machines, as they are sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
In the End
In summary, peridots have been treasured since ancient times and continue to be a luxury in the modern era. Owning one of these exquisite stones is a privilege that you will undoubtedly cherish.
Hopefully, this article has provided the information necessary to find the perfect gift for a loved one born in August.
