Peridot: Properties, Uses and Virtues

Peridot, a bewitching gem celebrated for its brilliant green hues, has been worshipped for its unique appeal for centuries.

Associated with renewal and vitality, peridot has captivated gem lovers and jewellery enthusiasts alike.

Discover the geological origins, historical significance and mystical properties of this exquisite gem.

Peridot: Table of contents

• Peridot Geological Formation
• Rough Peridot – Raw Beauty Revealed
• Sources – The Worldwide Scope of Peridot
• Historical Significance of Peridot – Through the Ages
• Metaphysical Properties of Peridot – Illuminating energies
• Peridot Varieties
• Peridot Colors
• Durability and Wearability of Peridot
• Peridot Enhancements – Preserving Natural Beauty
• Synthetic Peridot – Nature in a Laboratory
• Imitations of Peridot – Discerning the Authentic
• Peridot <care – Preserving natural beauty

Peridot Geological Formation

Peridot, a variety of gemstone in the olivine family, forms under extraordinary conditions in the earth’s mantle. It emerges through volcanic activity, transported to the surface within igneous rocks called basalts.

Peridot’s journey from the depths of the Earth to its emergence in volcanic eruptions is a testament to its captivating beauty.

Peridot has also been found in extraterrestrial sources such as meteorites, making it a truly astonishing stone.

Rough Peridot – Raw Beauty Revealed

The raw beauty of uncut peridot crystals reveals nature’s artistry, with distinct characteristics that fascinate gem experts. Peridot crystals can take the form of rounded orthorhombic prisms, broken pieces of crystal or rounded pebbles.

Sources – The Worldwide Scope of Peridot

Peridot is found in various regions around the world, including China, Myanmar, Pakistan and Arizona in the United States. Each source adds unique qualities to peridot, resulting in variations in colour and clarity that captivate gem enthusiasts.

Historical Significance of Peridot – Through the Ages

Peridot’s illustrious history stretches back through the ages, its captivating shades of green leaving an indelible mark on various cultures and civilisations. From ancient beliefs to royal finery, Peridot’s journey through time bears witness to its enduring appeal.

Ancient Egypt: The Gem of the Sun

In ancient Egypt, peridot was revered as the “gem of the sun”. The Egyptians associated this gem with the solar god Ra and believed that its brilliant green hue was a reflection of his radiance. Peridot’s vivid hue was thought to bring protection and blessings, making it a popular choice for jewellery and amulets worn by pharaohs and priests. The gem’s link with renewal and vitality also corresponded to the annual flooding of the Nile, which brought beneficial waters to the land.

The island of Saint-Jean, or Zabargad, has also been known since antiquity for producing Peridot.

The Island of Serendib: Cradle of the Peridot Legend

Peridot’s fascinating journey also includes the legends associated with the island of Serendib, in present-day Sri Lanka. According to ancient beliefs, peridot was considered to be the favourite gem of the island’s sovereign. The gem’s value and rarity were further enhanced by tales of its discovery by moonlight, adding to its mystical appeal.

Medieval Europe: Healing and Protection

During the Middle Ages, Peridot continued to captivate hearts across Europe. The gem was believed to have curative properties, particularly for ailments linked to the heart and lungs. Peridot was also considered to protect against negative energies and dark forces. Its luminous green hue was associated with vitality and growth, symbolising the renewal of life.

Ottoman Empire and Beyond: Treasures of Royalty

Peridot’s beauty and rarity made it a favourite among royalty and the aristocracy. The Ottoman Empire cherished peridot as a symbol of power and opulence. Royal jewellery and ceremonial objects were adorned with this gem, highlighting its exquisite charm in a variety of cultural contexts.

Modern Renaissance: A Gem for All Seasons

Peridot’s appeal enjoyed a renaissance in the 20th century, capturing the attention of designers and jewellery enthusiasts alike. Its bright green hue and versatile nature have enabled the creation of innovative, contemporary designs to suit a wide range of tastes. Today, Peridot adorns engagement rings, earrings, necklaces and other pieces of jewellery, embodying both a link with history and a celebration of modern aesthetics.

Metaphysical Properties of Peridot – Illuminating energies

Peridot is often associated with renewal, growth and healing. It is believed to help release negative emotions and promote clarity and balance. Peridot’s vibrant energy resonates with the heart chakra, promoting emotional well-being and strengthening the sense of personal mission.

Peridot Varieties

Peridot has a slight range of colours, but no notable variety.

Peridot Colors

Peridot captivates with its bewitching range of shades of green, from light green to rich olive. The different shades of Peridot allow for a wide range of jewellery designs that celebrate its unique beauty.

Durability and Wearability of Peridot

With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, Peridot offers good durability for jewellery. Its vibrant green hue and excellent clarity contribute to its long-lasting brilliance, making it a gem suitable for many different types of jewellery.

Peridot Enhancements – Preserving Natural Beauty

Peridot is generally untreated, and its natural beauty shines through without the need for enhancement. The appeal of the gem is celebrated in its pure, unadulterated form. However, a foil backing can be used to enhance colour and gloss.

Synthetic Peridot – Nature in a Laboratory

While natural Peridot gems have long been cherished, synthetic Peridot has emerged as a laboratory-created alternative. These artificial gems aim to reproduce the natural beauty of Peridot and are produced using a variety of methods. However, it is still rare to find synthetic peridot in jewellery.

Imitations of Peridot – Discerning the Authentic

As a sought-after gem, Peridot can be imitated or misrepresented by glass, sinhalite, tourmaline, green sapphire, tsavorite or chrysoberyl. Buyers should take care to ensure the authenticity of their Peridot purchases, seeking out reputable sources and certified gem dealers.

Peridot <care – Preserving natural beauty

Caring for Peridot jewellery ensures that its timeless beauty will last a lifetime. To maintain its lustre, avoid exposing Peridot to aggressive chemicals or rapid temperature changes.

Gently clean the gem with mild soapy water and a soft brush, keeping it separate from other jewellery to avoid scratches.

Avoid any mechanical tools, as peridot is often included.