Fittingly for a month deep into summer, Peridot was once dubbed by Egyptians as the “gem of the sun.” If you or a loved one enjoys an August birthday, you’ll want to educate yourself on the fascinating attributes of this distinct yellowish-green birthstone.
Peridot Has Unique Origins
Peridot pendant with diamond accents.
Remarkably, peridot is found in some very unexpected places such as lava flows, solidified molten rock, and deep in the earth’s mantle, and is brought to the earth’s surface by volcanic eruptions. Peridot crystals have even been known to be found in meteorites tracing back to the beginning of our solar system over 4 billion years ago. Because of its high iron and magnesium content, peridot is typically found in places that have high concentrations of these elements. One of the largest sources for peridot is on the island of Zabargad in the middle of the Red Sea.
Peridot Has A Strong Design History
Egyption designs indicate their use of peridot gemstones in fashion tracking back to 3,500 years ago. Fast forward, nearly all the schools of design associated with the Victorian and Edwardian ages involved peridot, from the Arts and Crafts movement to the Art Nouveau movement. King Edward VII even declared peridot his favorite gemstone, signaling its distinct popularity.
Peridot Carries Deep Metaphysical Meaning
Peridot has been celebrated throughout history by crystal mystics, medics, and those who follow the chakras. Associated with the heart chakra, peridot is thought to bring relational harmony, particularly in marriage, and to bring wealth and abundance. Peridot has been widely known to have the ability to protect from evil spirits and negative thoughts - but was believed to be most powerful when set in gold. Medics have historically touted peridot for helping with stomach ulcers and digestion, and even for supporting healthy childbirth.
Spinel
As an alternative to peridot, spinel is another option for celebrating an August birthday - officially acknowledged as another birthstone for the month. Though spinel has a history of being mistaken for other gemstones, such as rubies or sapphires, it is itself a natural untreated beauty. In fact, many celebrated historical “rubies” were actually spinels. Spinels can come in a variety of hues, ranging from bright reds, pinks, and oranges to vibrant teals, blues and purples. Their color variety, durability, and modest price point make them an ideal choice for any piece of jewelry.
Classic colors of spinel. The “ruby red” color is actually quite rare as a spinel.