AUGUST - THE ESSENCE OF PERIDOT

History of the Peridot

The lovely “late summer grassy” greens of this lively olivine family gemstone, coupled with its reasonable cost have long captured the attention of gemstone lovers. In antiquity top quality Peridots were sometimes mistaken for Emeralds. Cleopatra was famous for wearing Peridots from an island off Egypt, St. John’s Island. The ancient Egyptians prized the stone as the gemstone of the sun, and credited Peridot with a host of healing properties and magical powers.

Formed in volcanic environments, Peridot ranges from an olive, brownish green to a strong, lively, grassy green. The finest Peridot is green with no tinge of yellow or brown. Carat weights from 5 to 14 carats of this saturated grassy green are rare and highly prized.

Peridot Color Gemstones

August’s birthstone is also recognized as the preferred gift for the 16th wedding anniversary. Historically, Peridot is believed to bring happiness, attract love and foster friendship. The gem of bliss and good fortune, Peridot illuminates the sunny disposition of those who wear it. Traditionally Burma has produced the rarest stones, not readily available anymore because of the political situation. The saturated greens of Arizona Peridot fill the voids.

Peridot is not routinely enhanced. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean, no ultrasonic or stem cleaners.