Peridot Meaning and Properties
What is the History of Peridot?
Shimmering, pale green peridot—often called the evening emerald—is a gemstone commonly associated with spirituality and expression. The word "peridot" can be pronounced either "PAIR-uh-doe" or "PAIR-uh-dot." Its name comes from the French word peritôt, meaning unclear, referring to the many inclusions and internal fractures often found within peridot gemstone beads. Before the word peridot was commonly used, chrysolite (an older German word) described the gem.
Sometimes referred to as olivine, peridot is found only in green, varying from olive to brownish green. This color was so prized by ancient admirers that it was often mistaken for emerald. Peridot is the national gem of Egypt, and historians now believe many of Cleopatra’s "emeralds" were actually deep green peridots mined in Egypt.
Ancient Egyptians called peridot the "gem of the sun," and records show mining as early as 1500 B.C. on Topazo Island (now St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. According to legend, miners gathered glowing peridots at night by lantern light and marked the spots to dig during the day.
During the Middle Ages, European emissaries returned with peridot stones, decorating churches and royal robes. A large peridot, once thought to be an emerald, adorns the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral. Peridot is also mentioned in the Bible as part of Aaron's breastplate and the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem.
Some peridot crystals are extraterrestrial, found in meteorites that fell to Earth, such as a meteorite discovered in Siberia in 1749. Scientists also believe peridot makes up part of the moon’s mantle, linking this gem to both Earth and the cosmos.
Discover the rich history and peridot properties of this captivating gemstone—then learn how to make a simple necklace using peridot beads. From its legendary connection to ancient Egypt to its modern metaphysical meanings, this beautiful green gem has a story as vibrant as its color. Watch now and start designing with peridot today!
What are the Metaphysical Properties of Peridot?
Peridot, the birthstone for August, is traditionally given for 16th wedding anniversaries. Known as the stone of compassion, peridot properties are believed to promote good health, restful sleep, and harmonious relationships by balancing emotions and mind.
This cheerful green stone is also thought to enhance eloquence, creativity, and delight while calming anger and attracting love. Legends suggest that peridot set in gold can unleash its full protective potential, guarding against nightmares and negative energies. Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder wrote that wearing peridot on the right arm maximized its protective powers.
Peridot has long been treasured as a gemstone for strengthening friendships, fostering renewal, and warding off envious thoughts.
What is Peridot Made From?
Peridot belongs to the nesosilicate class of minerals and has the chemical composition (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. It forms primarily in silica-poor igneous rocks like basalt, and occasionally in meteorites.
The vividness of peridot’s green color depends on the amount of iron present—the less iron, the purer the green. Most gem-quality peridot comes from Arizona, Mexico, Oregon, Norway, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, with other notable sources in the Canary Islands, China, Hawaii, Australia, Brazil, and South Africa.
Peridot Properties:
- Mineral Information: Nesosilicate
- Chemical Composition: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄
- Color: Medium-pale lime green
- Hardness: 6-1/2 to 7 (Mohs scale)
- Specific Gravity: 3.27 - 3.37
- Refractive Index: 1.654 - 1.690
How Do You Clean Peridot?
Peridot should be handled with care. Clean peridot jewelry using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and exposure to harsh chemicals like ammonia and acids, as well as large temperature fluctuations that can damage the stone.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water, allow it to air dry, and store away from harder gemstones or metals that could scratch its surface. Always remove peridot jewelry before engaging in heavy-duty activities like gardening or mechanics.
What Chakra is Peridot?
Peridot is closely associated with the Heart Chakra, the energetic center of love, compassion and emotional balance. Wearing a chakra bracelet with peridot can help open the heart to joy and relationships, supporting emotional healing and renewal.
Heart Chakra (Anahata) - Green
- Location: chest (breastbone)
- Represents: the union of male and female principles; ability to love
- Emotional issues: compassion; trust; forgiveness; compassion; complex emotions; tenderness; equilibrium; love
- Spiritual issues: devotion
- Physical issues: immune system; cardio-vascular system; lungs
- Gemstones: amazonite, aventurine, jade, malachite, peridot, rhodonite, rhodochrosite, rose quartz
To learn more about how peridot connects with chakra energy and making chakra bracelets, visit Chakras and Their Gemstones.
Designing with Peridot
Peridot beads bring a lively burst of green to jewelry designs. They pair beautifully with stones like rose quartz, African bloodstone, blue agate, multi-colored fluorite, and lemon quartz for fresh, colorful pieces.
A Few Design Inspirations to Get You Started
Shop for Peridot
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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