Birthstone of the Month for August: Peridot

History of the Peridot

While the exact origins of the name peridot are not certain, many believe that it may have come from the Anglo-Norman pedoretés. Others believe that it is derived from the Arabic word for ‘gem’ (faridat) or from the Greek word ‘peridona’ (‘giving plenty’). The earliest use of peridot’s English name dates back to 1705, although its Latin denomination may have first been recorded in 1245 in the register of the St Albans Abbey.

In Hawaiian folklore, the peridot symbolises the tears of the goddess Pele, deity of volcanoes and fire. Peridots have been associated with light for a very long time. In Ancient Egypt, they were called ‘gem of the sun’ and mined on an island in the Red Sea called Topazios (also known as St John’s Island or Zabargad); for this reason, peridot was labelled as topaz for many years.

Cleopatra is famously known for having owned a vast emerald collection; however, the stones may have actually been peridots. For a long time, especially during the Middle Ages, people mistook peridot with emerald.

This precious gem is one of only two to form within the planet’s mantle instead of its crust; the other one is the diamond. Peridot forms in the upper mantle around 20 to 55 miles below ground (sometimes, it can also form at a depth of 100 to 150 miles). Natural volcanic activity brings this stone to the surface, though peridot can also be mined.

Today, the peridot mainly comes from Arizona, but it can also be found in China, Myanmar and Pakistan. The gemstone has been mined for over 3,500 years, but its production only increased in the last hundred years.

Image: 18ct White Gold 1.65ct Peridot and Diamond Drop Pendant

Properties of the Peridot

The properties of the beautiful August birthstone make it an incredible gem for jewellery. When searching for the perfect peridot stone or jewellery piece, it’s important to consider its many features, including:

Colour – Peridots may only come in one colour, but the tint and intensity of the hue can vary. This is due to the percentage of iron present in the crystal structure, which can create colours that range from yellowish to olive and brownish-green. The most valuable and sought-after colour is a dark olive green.

Carat – It’s relatively common to find peridots smaller than three carats; however, those over five carats are rare and have a higher value, and peridots ranging from 10 to 15 carats are an even rarer occurrence.

Clarity – Most peridots of gem-quality are translucent and clear to the naked eye. Under a loupe, this stone may appear to have inclusions inside, which doesn’t detract from its value if they can only be seen with special equipment.

Cut – When it comes to cut, peridots are usually faceted, as they can easily be cut into several different shapes due to their remarkable transparency. Popular cuts include oval, cushion, emerald, beads and dome-shaped cabochons.

Hardness – Peridot ranges from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning this precious gem is perfect for being set into several different types of jewellery, from rings and bracelets to necklaces and earrings.

Image: 18ct Yellow Gold 5.77ct Peridot and Diamond Halo Cocktail Ring

Peridot at Banks Lyon

This stone is sometimes referred to as the ‘evening emerald’, and it’s a stunning gem with a rich history that makes a gorgeous addition to any jewellery collection. Peridot is also the traditional gem for 16^th wedding anniversaries, so what better way to celebrate your love for your partner than with this beautifully vibrant stone?

At Banks Lyon, we offer jewellery featuring the lovely August birthstone that will perfectly complement your wardrobe and sit beautifully on your skin.

Image: 18ct Yellow Gold 7.49ct Peridot and Diamond Pendant