Peridot Gemstones
Peridot’s show-stopping color radiates sunshine and springtime. While many gemstones come in a variety of colors, peridot exists only in brilliant greens, ranging from yellow-green to dark olive. Peridot is the gem version of the mineral olivine, which also has a characteristic green color.
While the origins of the word “peridot” are unsure, it is believed that it comes from the French word for gold or the Arabic “faridat,” meaning gem. Peridot has traditionally been associated with peace, health, rest and strength.
While many gemstones originate in the Earth’s crust, peridot forms in the mantle, much like the illustrious diamond. August’s birthstone is revealed through volcanic activity and shifts in the crust, so it has previously been found in cooled lava.
Scientists have also discovered that this gem can have interstellar origins. Peridot crystals have been found in meteorites and space dust! While these celestial stones are too small to be used in jewelry, every peridot piece is sure to channel out-of-this-world beauty.
What is peridot's history?
Peridot’s shine convinced people in ancient times that the gem contained sun rays, leading Ancient Egyptians to refer to peridot as the “gem of the sun.” Ancient Egyptians were the first known miners of peridot on what is now known as St. John’s Island in the Red Sea. This dazzling gem was used to create carved talismans and added to the Pharaoh's collection of treasures. It is even believed that Cleopatra’s famous “emeralds” could have been peridots! Egypt continues this connection today as peridot is their national gemstone.
