Peridot is said to be a stone of hope and happiness. Those associated with it are individuals that are known to be energetic, outgoing and enthusiastic. Many say that peridot is a remedy to negativity and it is said to restore happiness.
Fun Fact: Peridot is the gem given to celebrate a 16th wedding anniversary.
WHAT IS PERIDOT?
This 146.10-carat peridot is in the collection of the Natural History Museum in London
Peridot History and Lore (gia.edu)
The word peridot is derived from the Arabic word “faridat”, meaning gem. This August birthstone was valued in many ancient cultures. It appeared in priests’ jewellery as early as the second century and later in the chalices and churches of medieval Europe. The peridot birthstone has also been used for centuries as a protective talisman, shielding the owner from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.”
Most peridot are formed deep inside the earth and brought to the surface by volcanoes. And there have been rare occasions of extraterrestrial peridot, that came to earth in meteorites.
Peridot are also known as the ‘Evening Emerald’, as its sparkling green hues look good any time of day and continue to glisten in candlelight.
Fun Fact: Peridot is the only gemstone that comes in one colour. The colour green is caused by the amount of iron in the crystal structure, and the shades of green vary from pale yellow green to deep olive green.
PERIDOT COLOUR & HARDNESS
For peridot, yellowish green is the most common colour seen in jewellery. Nevertheless, the colour range for peridot is from a brown-green colour to yellowish green to pure green. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot is softer than many gems and cannot take hard wear.
PERIDOT CARE AND CLEANING
Cleaning Peridot is a delicate process. Never use steam or an ultrasonic cleaner, as your peridot is vulnerable to thermal shock. It is safest to use a soft-bristle brush with mild dish soap in warm water. Peridot should be stored separately and with care to avoid scratching by gems with greater hardness.
Whether you’re shopping for a birthstone for an August birthday or a 16th wedding anniversary, peridot makes the perfect gift that will leave others green with envy, visit our e-store for more collection at www.habibjewels.com.
