August Birthstone
: Peridot
Birthstone Color: Yellow
Green
If fire appears
to leap from the vibrant green surface of the Peridot, this may be because
this gem is formed as a result of volcanic activity. Many years
ago, natives discovered Peridot crystals in the black sands of Hawaii,
explaining their presence as tears shed by Pele, the volcano goddess.
Throughout history, August's birthstone has been used as a means to
connect with nature. Early Egyptian priests drank a stimulating
beverage called Soma from cups made of Peridot, believing this practice
to draw them closer to Isis, the goddess of nature.
The name Peridot
comes from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. Ancient Egyptians
called them the "gem of the sun," because of their dazzling brilliance
when seen in the desert sun. It was believed that the Peridot
glowed with light even as darkness fell, which is why miners were said
to have scouted for these gems during the night, marking their location,
and returning in the light of day to retrieve them. Perhaps this
legendary mining method is the reason that the Peridot is sometimes
called "evening emerald."
Peridot is a mineral
named Olivine, which is found in a variety of greens, ranging from light
yellowish green to a dark olive. Early mining for this gem was
done on Saint John's Island near Egypt around 1500 BC. The green
crystal was considered protective against evil and when set in gold,
especially helpful against night terrors. It was ground to powder
and used as a remedy for asthma and as a cure for thirst brought on
by fever. Today, Peridot is mined in Burma, Norway, Brazil, Australia,
Hawaii, the Congo, and in Arizona.
The force of nature
is alive within a Peridot, making a gift of this gemstone symbolic of
vitality. It signifies strength, both individual and within a
relationship, as well as the promise of new growth in years ahead.
Alternate August
Birthstone
An alternate birthstone for August, Sardonyx is a type of translucent
or opaque quartz with alternating parallel bands of brownish red and
white. This stone was worn as a talisman by the Egyptians to protect
against infections and evil. Today it is highly polished and carved
into beautiful beads and cameos. Sardonyx is mined in India, Germany,
Czechoslovakia, Brazil and Uruguay. A gift of this stone is considered
symbolic of happiness within a relationship.
Please check
here to view our selection of simulated and genuine peridot items
