PERIDOT

Peridot, sometimes called chrysolite, is a well-known gemstone and the customary birthstone for the month of August. The gem variety of the mineral olivine, it has a lovely light green to olive-green hue, especially when cut into a gemstone. The intensity of its color depends on the amount of iron present within its crystal structure; the more iron it contains the more saturated the color. Interestingly, peridot is one of only two gems that are observed to be formed not in the Earth’s crust, but instead, in the molten rock formations of the upper mantle. After its fiery creation within the upper mantle, it is transported upward through the crust via volcanic activity. Papakōlea Beach, also called the Green Sand Beach, is a uniquely formed olivine beach that is located within the southern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii. Here, the distinctly green colored sand is a result of a 49,000-year-old volcanic eruption that formed the Pu’u Mahana cinder cone. During the eruption, lava flow rich in olivine poured its way out of the volcano and became accumulated into the host rock of the surrounding area. Over time, wind and oceanic activity began to erode the volcanic rock, and due to the crystal’s relative density, they remained on the beach while the lighter sand materials were washed away. Papakōlea is one of only four olivine beaches in the world, making it a wonderful geologic rarity.

Peridot is a silicate mineral with the chemical composition of (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it moderately durable, but not ideal for regular wear and tear when it comes to jewelry.

PERIDOT HISTORY AND USES

Jewelry made from Peridot has been crafted since ancient times and has been discovered at many locations worldwide, perhaps most famously within the sarcophagi and death masks of the Egyptian pharaohs, as well as within the famed jewelry collections of Cleopatra. Peridot mining dates all the way back to the second millennium BC, where it has been discovered that early mining practices of the material had occurred within The Red Sea, on the small volcanic island of Zabargad, which were once called Topazios and is now called St. Johns Island. There, the beautiful green crystals were referred to as “the gems of the sun”, and were prized for their beauty and perceived powers of protection against evil spirts and negative energy.

Later, during the Medieval Period and the Crusades, peridot jewelry was often used as religious talismans of protection and strength. Throughout history, however, peridot has been mistakenly perceived as another gem green mineral called emerald, although the two do not share a similar chemical or crystalline structure. This confusion is well documented within many historical accounts of jewelry, such as Cleopatras jewelry collection and the “Three Holy Kings” treasure that is housed within the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.

PERIDOT METAPHYSICS

Metaphysically, peridot is considered a powerful stone of the Heart Chakra. It is said that this crystal can help to provide emotional balance, heart healing, and protection. Considering that peridot is strongly connected to the Heart Chakra, it is also said that it is an energetic amplifier of Love, compassion, and positive relationships. It is also said to be a terrific aid for those who wish to find their souls’ purpose and create pathways towards following it. Physically, peridot is said to aid the body with afflictions of the heart and lungs, as well as provide comfort and effortless flow of the intestinal tract and digestive system.