Peridot

The name Peridot is believed to have originated from the Arabic word faridat (فريدة), meaning “gem,” reflecting its status as a prized gemstone. Some scholars also suggest that it comes from the Old French peritot, meaning “unclear,” possibly referring to its inclusions or variations in clarity.

Peridot has also been historically known as Chrysolite, derived from the Greek chrysos (χρυσός), meaning “gold,” and lithos (λίθος), meaning “stone,” due to its golden-green glow. This term was historically used for various greenish gemstones, including some varieties of topaz. Another ancient name is Olivine, referring to its mineral group, which also includes forsterite and fayalite.

Composition and Physical Characteristics

Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is known for its distinct green colour, which results from iron within its composition. Unlike many other gemstones, Peridot’s colour does not vary significantly due to impurities but is directly related to its iron content.

Varieties of Peridot

• Standard Peridot – Typically found in shades ranging from yellow-green to olive-green, depending on iron content.
• Forsterite-rich Peridot – A magnesium-dominant variety, often exhibiting a brighter and more intense green hue.
• Fayalite-rich Peridot – Contains higher iron content, resulting in a deeper olive or brownish-green shade.
• Extraterrestrial Peridot – Found in meteorites, especially pallasites, these rare specimens are often highly prized by collectors.

Peridot has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewellery but still susceptible to scratching. It has a vitreous to oily lustre and exhibits strong birefringence, meaning that light entering the gemstone splits into two rays, giving it a vibrant glow.

Locations and Notable Finds

Peridot is primarily found in volcanic regions and has been mined for thousands of years. Key locations include:

• Egypt (Zabargad Island, Red Sea) – One of the most ancient sources, supplying Peridot to Egyptian royalty, including Cleopatra.
• Myanmar (Burma) – Produces some of the finest deep green Peridots, prized for their rich colour.
• Pakistan (Kohistan region) – A significant modern source of high-quality Peridot.
• China – Supplies commercial quantities, particularly from the Tibet and Hunan provinces.
• United States (Arizona) – The San Carlos Apache Reservation is a major source, known for producing Peridot used in Native American jewellery.
• Hawaii – Green sand beaches, such as Papakōlea Beach, contain olivine-rich grains, though not used for jewellery.
• Norway and Finland – Home to Peridot deposits in their basaltic and metamorphic rocks.
• Meteorites (Extraterrestrial Peridot) – Found in pallasite meteorites, these space-born gems have been recovered from places like the Brenham meteorite (USA) and Esquel meteorite (Argentina).

Archaeological and Significant Finds

Peridot has been treasured since ancient times. Some of the most famous finds include:

• Ancient Egyptian Peridots from Zabargad Island, where they were used in pharaohs’ jewellery and ceremonial items.
• Peridot-encrusted churches in Europe, such as Cologne Cathedral in Germany, which houses large Peridot gems once mistaken for emeralds.
• Rare Peridot specimens found in meteorites, demonstrating its cosmic origins.

Historical and Current Usage

Ancient Use

Ancient Egypt Peridot was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, who referred to it as the “gem of the sun.” It was mined on the island of Topazios (AKA Zabargad or St Johns Island) in the Red Sea. The pharaohs believed it protected against nightmares and evil spirits and wore it as a talisman.

Legend says that miners could only find peridot at night when it glowed under moonlight. They marked the location and returned during daylight to collect the stone.

Historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection might have been peridot.

Greek and Roman: The Greeks originally called peridot “topazios,” from the island of the same name which at that time was the only source. They believed it could ward off evil and enhance strength. Roman soldiers wore peridot to bring courage and calm anger in battle.

Hawaiian Mythology: Peridot is connected to the goddess Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire. The stones are believed to be the tears of Pele, formed from the volcanic activity on the islands. It’s often found in volcanic lava flows, connecting it to earth and fire elements.

Middle Ages It was used in Christian religious jewellery and church decorations, symbolizing purity and morality. Adorning many medieval churches, including some treasures in the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. It was believed to protect against demonic possession and to help clergy stay connected to their spiritual path

Modern Uses

• Jewellery – Used in rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, often set in gold to enhance its warm green tones.
• Metaphysical Practices – Popular in crystal healing and meditation.
• Industrial Use – Though rare, olivine has been used as a refractory material in foundries.

Interesting Facts

• Peridot is one of the only gemstones found in meteorites, making it both terrestrial and extraterrestrial.
• Unlike most gems, which are formed in the Earth’s crust, Peridot forms deep in the mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
• Some historians believe Cleopatra’s famous “emeralds” were actually Peridot.
• Peridot can exhibit a cat’s eye effect or star-like reflection (asterism) in rare specimens.

Folklore, Legends, and Tales

• In ancient Hawaiian mythology, Peridot was believed to be the tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes.
• Ancient sailors carried Peridot as a talisman against nightmares and dangers at sea.
• In medieval times, it was believed that setting Peridot in gold enhanced its protective properties.
• In some traditions, Peridot was used to ward off enchantments and evil spirits.

Mystical Healing Properties

Peridot is considered a powerful healing stone with various metaphysical attributes:

• Emotional Healing – Helps release past trauma, resentment, and negative patterns.
• Spiritual Growth – Encourages self-discovery and enlightenment.
• Protection – Shields against negative energies and psychic attacks.
• Wealth and Abundance – Associated with prosperity and attracting good fortune.
• Physical Healing – Linked to supporting digestive health, metabolism, and overall vitality.

Astrological and Zodiac Connections

Peridot is primarily associated with the zodiac sign:

• Leo – Enhances confidence, charisma, and personal power.
• Virgo – Encourages mental clarity and balance.
• Scorpio – Promotes emotional healing and transformation.

It is also considered beneficial for those born under Libra, as it fosters harmony and clear communication.

Chakra System Connections

Peridot resonates strongly with:

• Heart Chakra (Anahata) – Opens the heart to love, compassion, and emotional healing.
• Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura) – Enhances confidence, self-worth, and motivation.

Birthstone and Wedding Anniversary Links

• Birthstone – Peridot is the official birthstone for August.
• Wedding Anniversary – Traditionally gifted for the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolising love, renewal, and continued happiness.