The birthstone of August is peridot, sometimes referred to as the “gem of the sun,” the gorgeously green gemstone that has graced jewelry and precious objects since ancient times.
Peridot is one of the only gems that form in only one color: its signature olive-green. Peridot can appear in a range of shades of green, from yellow-green, to a brownish-green. These shades are caused by varied iron levels in the gem. Iron levels also determine how light the color of a peridot gem is. The lower the iron concentration, the lighter the gem color will be. The most prized peridot gems are a vibrant green with no yellow or brown undertones, as seen in this incomparable 14K Yellow Gold Peridot and Diamond Pendant at Roman Jewelers (Below).
Peridot forms as part of the mineral olivine, deep underground in Earth’s upper mantle and is brought to the surface primarily by volcanoes.
Peridot has also been found in meteorites, however testing has shown that the levels of elements found in meteorite samples and samples from Earth are different. Despite these differences, Peridot's occasional extraterrestrial origin is a mysterious addition to the gem’s history. Found exclusively at Roman Jewelers, this 14k Yellow Gold Peridot and Diamond Ring below is the perfect accessory to generate intrigue, just like peridot’s celestial existence.
Peridot was first mined on Zabargad Island, located in the Foul Bay of the Red Sea off the coast of Egypt. Peridot’s appearance on Zabargad Island can be attributed to the island’s unique geographic makeup. The island is formed from a piece of uplifted mantle, where peridot is found.
Cleopatra’s legendary collection of emeralds are believed by some historians to have included many peridot gems. The similar green color that emeralds and peridot share has contributed to historic mix ups like this one. Like Cleopatra’s emeralds, the emeralds that adorn the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral in Germany are actually peridot, according to the Gemological Institute of America.
Peridot is not only treasured for its physical properties, but its symbolic ones as well. Peridot is said to bring good health, strength, restful sleep, and peace to relationships due to its emotion balancing properties. It also has a symbolic connection to alleviating jealousy, resentment, and stress.
In Hawaiian culture, peridot has symbolized the tears of the goddess Pele. Pele is the goddess of volcanoes and fire, making the association with peridot even more evident. Pele’s tears were thought to bring healing, wealth, and growth to the wearer.
This beautiful Sterling Silver Icon Necklace with Peridot Beads from Lagos (above) resembles a streak of the goddess Pele’s tears, and might even bring the wearer good fortune as Hawaiian myth states.
This dive into the world of peridot gems is only the beginning! Come visit Roman Jewelers in Bridgewater, NJ to see our full collection of sparkling peridot jewelry. We would love to meet you and answer any of your burning questions about peridot, or any of the other amazing gems we use in our jewelry.