August’s Star: The Allure of Peridot
Peridot, a gemstone that captures the essence of sunshine and joy. With their vibrant green hue and sparkling charm, peridots have been cherished for centuries. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating history, properties, and significance of peridots, so that you can appreciate their unique allure.
The Rich History and Origin of Peridots
Peridots were mined as early as 1500 BCE on Zabargad Island, now known as St. John's Island, in the Red Sea. The island became the earliest known source of peridots and the gems extracted from there were highly prized for their vibrant glow.
In ancient Egypt, peridots were cherished and revered as the "gem of the sun" due to their vibrant green color, which was believed to capture the warmth and light of the sun itself. The Egyptians thought that peridots had the power to protect them from nightmares and strengthen their bond with nature.
In the Roman Empire, these gemstones were admired for their brilliant color and were fondly referred to as the "emerald of the evening." The Romans appreciated how peridots retained their stunning green hue even in artificial light, making them a popular choice for evening wear.
During medieval times, peridots were thought to possess protective properties. They were believed to ward off evil spirits and bring safety to their wearers. Crusaders brought peridots back to Europe from their travels, where they quickly gained popularity. These gems were often set into religious artifacts and ornaments, adding both beauty and a sense of divine protection.
Modern Sources: A Global Gem
Today, peridots continue to captivate with their vibrant color and rich history. They are found in various parts of the world, including the United States (Arizona), China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Arizona, in particular, is renowned for producing some of the highest quality natural peridots, known for their intense, bright green hue. Fortunately, the global availability of peridots ensures that their radiant beauty can be enjoyed by people all around the world, keeping the legacy of this enchanting gemstone alive.
Properties of Peridots
Color:
- Vibrant Green: Peridots are known for their striking green color, which can range from yellow-green to olive-green. The most prized peridots have a pure, intense green hue with no brownish or yellowish tints.
Hardness:
- Durability: Peridots have a Mohs hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, making them relatively durable for everyday wear. However, they should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage.
Clarity:
- Eye-Clean Gemstones: High-quality peridots are typically eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions when viewed with the naked eye.
The Meaning and Significance of Peridots
Symbol of Strength:
- Inner Strength: Peridots are often associated with vitality. They are believed to help individuals overcome challenges and find inner strength.
Healing and Protection:
- Protective Stone: Historically, peridots were often used as talismans and amulets for protection as they were thought to protect the wearer from negative energies and evil spirits.
- Emotional Healing: Peridots are believed to promote emotional balance, reducing feelings of stress and jealousy while encouraging creativity that ultimately results in focused action.
Prosperity and Growth:
- Wealth and Abundance: Peridots are considered stones of prosperity, attracting wealth, abundance, and good fortune.
- Personal Growth: They are also thought to foster personal growth, aiding the wearer in achieving their goals and realizing their full potential.
Birthstone Significance:
- August Birthstone: Peridots are the birthstone for August, making them a meaningful gift for those born in this month. They symbolize warmth, joy, and a bright future.
Peridot Jewelry
If you’re lucky enough to have peridot as your birthstone, you know how its vibrant green hue can brighten up any jewelry collection. Here are some lovely peridot jewelry pieces that will not only celebrate your August birthstone but also add a touch of warmth and elegance to your style.
1. Peridot Stud Earrings:
- Why We Love Them: Simple yet stunning, peridot stud earrings are perfect for everyday wear. Their bright green sparkle adds a pop of color to any outfit without being overwhelming.
- Style Tip: Pair them with your favorite casual looks for a subtle hint of sophistication.
PERIDOT BAGUETTE STUD EARRINGS, LUPITA
2. Peridot Pendant Necklace:
- Why We Love It: A peridot pendant necklace is a wonderful way to keep your birthstone close to your heart. Its vibrant glow can serve as a beautiful focal point for any outfit.
- Style Tip: Wear it with a simple blouse or dress to let the peridot shine, or layer it with other necklaces for a trendy, personalized look.
GOLD PERIDOT NECKLACE, ANAYA
PERIDOT CUBAN CHAIN NECKLACE, KARSYN
3. Peridot Ring:
- Why We Love It: Whether set in gold or silver, a peridot ring makes a bold statement. Its vivid green color can add a refreshing touch to your jewelry collection.
- Style Tip: Wear your peridot ring solo for a minimalist vibe, or stack it with other rings for a more eclectic style.
NATURAL PERIDOT ETERNITY RING, RIVER
SQUARE PERIDOT BRAIDED BAND, SAGE
4. Peridot Bracelet:
- Why We Love It: A dainty peridot bracelet can add a graceful touch to your wrist. Its subtle sparkle is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
- Style Tip: Stack it with other bracelets or a watch for a stylish, layered look.
PETITE PERIDOT STATION BRACELET, TABITHA
How to Care for Your Peridot Jewelry
To keep your peridot jewelry looking its best, follow these simple care tips:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep peridots away from harsh chemicals and cleaning agents that can damage the stone.
- Gentle Cleaning: Clean peridot jewelry with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to gently remove dirt and debris.
- Proper Storage: Store peridot jewelry separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or lined jewelry box is ideal (lucky for you, all of our pieces come with a suede pouch perfect for when you’re on the go!).
Conclusion
Peridots with their rich history and color make them a cherished addition to any jewelry collection. At Sarah Elise, we are dedicated to offering exquisite peridot jewelry, crafted with the utmost care to highlight their natural beauty. Take a look at our collection and let the radiant glow of peridots bring a touch of joy and warmth to your everyday life.
