Peridot is the contemporary birthstone for August, and in addition to being used in August birthstone jewelry is the gemstone selected to mark the 16th wedding anniversary. This particular stone is a type of olivine which is a mixture of 2 minerals, foylite and forsterite. It is still quite doubtful where the word peridot comes from, whether it is from the French word peritot, which means unclear or the word for gem in Arabic, faridat. Whichever is true the gem was named peridot, by the French sometime in the 18th century. Before then the Peridot precious stone was just known as topaz.

For over 4000 years peridot has been mined as a precious stone and is even mentioned in the Bible as the Hewbrew gem, pitdah. Peridot is the state precious stone of Egypt and was used in Egyptian jewelry from as early as fifteen hundred B.C. It was named the “gem of the sun” as ancient miners held that it shone with a green light that made the gem easier to find. This gorgeous precious stone is becoming wildly fashionable because of the legend denoting it as Cleopatra’s favorite jewel.

Description of the Peridot Gem

Throughout the years this valuable August precious stone has frequently been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone can be described as a light sea green with hints of yellow. Some gems incorrectly identified as the peridot are garnets, apatite, zircon and emeralds, all of which rarely possess the nice tint of yellow that looks so attractive with the peridot’s green color.

The Quality of Peridot Gemstones

Peridots with an iron percentage of less than 16% and the trace elements chromium and nickel are those of the best quality. Peridot is mined in an island in the Red Sea called Zebirget , Pakistan Minas Gerais, Chihuahua, Mexico, Brazil, Eifel, Kohistan, Germany, Ethiopia, Australia, Peridot Mesa, Gila County, USA, Arizona and Salt Lake Crater. Originally the finest quality peridot came from Egypt however a number of remarkable specimens have been found in Pakistan that challenge this claim. The gems discovered in Arizona are of inferior quality but are more abundant, which makes them more affordable for many people. Approximately 85 – 95% of all world production comes from Arizona. Gems from Pakistan and Egypt are better quality and rarer and consequently are more valuable.

Mystical Powers of the Peridot

The beautiful August birthstone is a symbol for success and dignity and it’s also thought of a shield for the body as it defends against negativity. It’s also linked with stress reduction and relaxation. The Ancient Egyptians used this jewel to clean and heal the heart. A number of illnesses such as asthma and fever were thought to be cured by placing powdered peridot under the tongue. A further belief is that setting this stone in gold will amplify its powers..

August Birthstone Jewelry

Peridot is a delightful precious stone in its own right and is becoming increasingly popular. Peridot gemstones can be enjoyable collectors items and they make wonderful August birthstone jewelry gifts.

Get realistic info in the sphere of Free Traffic System – welcome to your own knowledge pack.

Share

Save

Popularity: 2%

Related posts:

1. Silver Turquoise Jewelry – The Attractive Blue Gemstone
2. The Intriguing World Of Precious Stones And Gem Collecting Here And Now
3. Designer Jewelry ? Custom-made
4. Designer Jewelry ? Custom-made
5. Latest Fashion Jewelry Trend For Summer Seasons
6. Prescious Gems When Finely Cut Are A Terribly Attention-grabbing Collectible To Put Away At Home