Peridot: Facts, Fiction, History, and Lore

Peridot is a beautiful green gemstone and is the birthstone of August. While some may confuse this gem with the popular emerald, it appears more lime green than deep green. It is a member of the olivine family.

Unlike many other stones, this gem is only found in one color, various shades of green. A specific kind of this gemstone, known as Chinese Hebei peridot, glows a distinctive deep chartreuse or olive with golden undertones. On the other hand, Arizona Peridot possesses a deeper lime green color that glows vibrantly in sunlight.

 

Peridot originates from Burma, Arizona, Norway and some islands in the Red Sea. Sometimes it can also be found in meteorites.  In April 2008, a pallasite meteorite, which is a stony-iron type of meteorite, containing olivine crystals, was auctioned off for $3 million!

 

This gem is said to bring its wearer peace, success and good luck. Its energies and power boost protection, health and sleep. It’s associated with springtime, and ancient civilizations believed it to be a gift from Mother Nature. No wonder it matches perfectly with Greenery, the Pantone Color of the Year for 2017!

 

 

 

Like other gemstones, you’ll want to protect this jewel from knocks and bangs that might chip the stone. In addition, regular cleaning will definitely keep your jewelry looking its best. Because the stone is relatively soft, peridot jewelry needs to be protected from harder jewelry and metals in your jewelry box.

 

Always put your jewelry on last when getting dressed, and take it off first when getting undressed. This helps make sure that lotions and perfumes don’t damage your gemstones over time. Keep away from solvents (including harsher dishwashing solutions), chemicals and heat to avoid destroying its luster. For more information on general jewelry care, check out our Education Center.

Green can be a very selective color when it comes to matching it with others. However, earth colors, such as brown, tan, and dark green, look great when paired with the lime jewel. Blue, white and yellow are also very nice when combined with this gemstone.

 

You can also get this gemstone in many different shades of green. The bright, kiwi green stones make a stunning statement piece, such as this Hebei peridot necklace. And the darker shades look exquisite when united with various metals.

 

Because the cuts and shapes of the stone are limitless, you can have just about any type of jewelry in peridot. It can be fashioned to make earrings, bracelets, pendants, cufflinks and rings.

 

Wearing this vibrant gem during the summer is perfect, because the sunshine will really make it stand out. But remember, if you weren’t born in August, it doesn’t mean you can’t rock peridot accessories. It’s striking green color makes every outfit energetic and lively.

 

Birthday not in August? Check out our birthstone calendar to find yours!