The Birthstone for August - Peridot
Each month is associated with a particular birthstone, and August's birthstone is the lovely and fresh green Peridot stone. In this blog post, we'll delve into everything you need to know about peridot, including its history, symbolism, and our top picks of peridot jewellery.
Peridot is a silicate mineral, typically found in hues ranging from olive to yellow-green or vivid spring green. It is transparent to translucent and has a glass-like lustre.
How are Peridots Formed?
Peridot is an unusual stone, formed inside the Earth's mantle, much like diamond and sapphire. It is brought closer to the surface by tectonic movements, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. Peridot and related stones have also been found in meteorites.
Peridot and Ancient Egypt
In ancient Egypt, peridot was regarded as a crystal that the gods had left for the pharaohs. Even today, its spiritual qualities play a significant role in its allure. The vivid, life-enriching characteristics of peridot, which the ancient Egyptians believed originated from the sun, are still highly valued today. Holding a piece of peridot up to the light or even just in the palm of your hand, you can easily see why there was this connection to the sun.
What Does Peridot Symbolise in Crystal Healing?
Ancient civilizations believed peridot had healing and renewing properties, and that belief continues today. Peridot is a stone that protects the aura and was once thought to fend off evil spirits. It is known as a stone for new beginnings, encouraging you to distance yourself from unfavourable individuals and outside forces and turn to your Higher Self for guidance instead, enhancing psychological insights.
What are the Properties of Peridot?
Peridot is a type of silicate mineral that has a hardness rating of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. This scale is used to measure a mineral's resistance to scratches and is based on its ability to scratch other minerals. Peridot's rating means that it is relatively durable, although it can still be scratched by minerals that are harder, such as quartz, topaz, or diamond. In general, the higher a mineral's rating on the Mohs scale, the harder it is considered to be.
Our Top Picks of Peridot Jewellery
The Bottom Line
Peridot crystals come in glistening green variants, making stunning gemstone jewellery. Since peridot's price is far lower than that of diamonds or emeralds, you may afford to use more stones and larger specimens to create a stunning statement. Often an underrated stone, peridot can act as a reminder to unwind and enjoy the moment, much like a balmy August day.
Peridot FAQs:
What is the Birthstone for August?
The birthstone for August is peridot, a lovely fresh green stone.
How is Peridot Formed?
Peridot is formed inside the mantle of the Earth and brought closer to the surface by tectonic movements, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. It can also be found in meteorites.
How Hard is Peridot?
Peridot measures 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively hard and durable, but can still be scratched by harder minerals such as quartz, topaz, or diamond. The higher the number on the Mohs scale, the harder the mineral.
What does Peridot Symbolize in Crystal Healing?
Peridot is believed to have healing and renewing properties, and is known as a stone for new beginnings. It encourages you to distance yourself from negative forces and turn to your Higher Self for guidance.
What is the Significance of Peridot in Ancient Egypt?
Peridot was regarded in ancient Egypt as a crystal that the gods had left for the pharaohs. It was thought to originate from the sun and had vivid, life-enriching characteristics that were highly valued.
Interested in the Birthstones for other months? Take a look at our guide here: Your Guide to Birthstones (sennenjewellery.com)