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As the summer sun blazes brightly and August arrives, it brings with it a gemstone that perfectly captures the season's vibrant energy: Peridot! With its dazzling, lime-green to olive-green hues, peridot is a true ray of sunshine in the world of gemstones. Often mistaken for emeralds in historical accounts (even Cleopatra's famed emerald collection is now thought to have included a fair share of peridot!), this beautiful stone has a rich history and a unique charm all its own.

The "Gem of the Sun" with a Fiery Origin

Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, and it boasts a fascinating origin story. Unlike most gemstones that form in the Earth's crust, peridot is born deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. This fiery beginning led ancient Egyptians to call it the "gem of the sun," believing it contained the sun's rays and offered protection against nightmares and evil spirits. Hawaiian legend even describes peridot as the "tears of Pele," the volcano goddess!

Even more fascinating, peridot is one of the few gemstones that has also been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth, making it a truly extraterrestrial gem in some rare instances!

A Spectrum of Green: Peridot's Unique Color

What makes peridot stand out is its distinctive green color. While many gemstones derive their color from trace impurities, peridot's green comes directly from its chemical composition – specifically, the presence of iron within its structure. This means peridot is one of the few gemstones that only comes in one color family, though its intensity can vary from a soft yellowish-green to a deep, rich olive green. The most prized peridots exhibit a vivid, almost neon lime-green hue with excellent saturation.

Where Does This Green Beauty Come From?

Historically, the oldest known source of peridot is the island of Zabargad (formerly Topazios) in the Red Sea, off the coast of Egypt, where it was mined for thousands of years. Today, the vast majority of the world's gem-quality peridot comes from the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, USA. This region is a powerhouse of peridot production, supplying a significant percentage of the global market.

Other notable sources include:

• Myanmar (formerly Burma): Known for producing some of the finest, most intensely colored peridots.

• Pakistan: Discovered in the 1990s, Pakistani peridots are celebrated for their exceptional clarity and large sizes.

• China, Vietnam, and Ethiopia also contribute to the world's supply.

Peridot's Properties and Care

On the Mohs scale of hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7. This means it's durable enough for most jewelry but does require a bit more care than harder gems like sapphires or diamonds. It's generally safe for daily wear but should be protected from scratches and hard impacts.

Care Tips for Your Peridot:

• Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals, acids, or sudden temperature changes.

• Never use steam or ultrasonic cleaners.

• The best way to clean peridot jewelry is with mild dish soap and warm water, using a soft brush.

• Store peridot pieces separately to prevent them from being scratched by harder gemstones.

Meaning and Symbolism: More Than Just a Pretty Stone

Beyond its captivating beauty, peridot is steeped in rich symbolism:

• Protection: Historically, it was believed to ward off evil spirits, negative energies, and nightmares.

• Good Fortune & Prosperity: Its association with the sun often links it to abundance and good luck.

• Healing & Balance: Peridot is often connected to the heart and solar plexus chakras, promoting emotional balance, well-being, and alleviating stress and anxiety. It's believed to foster inner peace and rejuvenate the spirit.

• New Beginnings: Its fresh green color makes it a symbol of growth, renewal, and positivity, encouraging the wearer to embrace new opportunities.

As the birthstone for August, peridot is a perfect gift for those celebrating summer birthdays. It's also traditionally given to commemorate a 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing renewed love and harmony in a marriage.

Whether you're drawn to its unique green glow, its rich history, or its positive symbolism, peridot is a gemstone that truly shines. It's a testament to nature's artistry and a perfect way to celebrate the warmth and vitality of August!