“Gleaming in Green: Unearthing the Enchanting World of the Peridot Gemstone”
In the vast and mesmerizing world of gemstones, Peridot stands out as a unique gem. There is no stone quite like the peridot.
Unlike other gemstones, Peridot is the only gem that comes in just one colour.
Its vibrant hue is quite unique in the world of jewellery - a refreshing shade of green that is often compared to freshly cut grass, or olives if the peridot is green with subtle yellow undertones.
Peridot’s fascinating properties have dazzled jewellery lovers for centuries.
Kiki McDonough Peridot and Aquamarine Earrings
Source
The majority of Peridot in formed deep within the earth’s mantle but is brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. One of the most recent geological events to shine a light on peridots occurred when the Kilauea volcano erupted in Hawaii in 2018.
Large deposits of Peridot can be found worldwide but particularly in these regions
Egypt: This is the historical source of Peridot
Pakistan: The mountains of Pakistan are renowned for their rich deposits of high quality Peridot.
Arizona, USA: The San Carlos Apache reservation in Arizona is famous for producing vibrant green Peridot.
Myanmar: This Southeast Asian region is also a significant producer of Peridot.
History
Peridot’s history can be traced back thousands of years. They were first mined on an island in the Red Sea (Egypt) more than 3500 years ago, probably as early as 1500BC.
For years, it was mistakenly confused with the Emerald and legend has it that Cleopatras collection of emeralds were actually Peridots! Peridot gemstones mined in ancient Egypt often looked very dark green, explaining the possible confusion between the two.
The Egyptians called it the “Gem of the Sun” and often used it to adorn the Pharoah’s jewellery, believing it had protective powers against evil spirits.
The Romans called the stone “The Evening Emerald” because of it’s ability to glitter and sparkle even in the lowest of lights.
The largest cut Peridot in the world weighs 311 carats and is on display at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C.This epic mixed cushion shaped stone originated from the Zabargad Island in Egypt.
The most famous collection of Peridot jewellery belonged to the Austrian Grand Duchess Isabella. The Habsburg Peridot Parure comprises a tiara, necklace and earrings. It was initially created around 1825 by the Imperial Hapsburg jeweller, Kochert, for the Grand Duchess Henrietta, wife of Charles, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. He later gave the collection to his nephew, Grand Duke Friedrich who, in turn, gifted them to his wife, the Grand Duchess Isabella.
There are 5 enormous Peridots in the tiara alone and the necklace features 7 peridot drops. In 2001. this regal set was sold by Sotheby’s London to a New York antique jewellery specialist.
The Habsburg Peridot Parure. Image ROYALJEWELS.COM
The Modern Jewel
It's the birthstone for August and also the gemstone jewellery gifted for the 16th wedding anniversary.
The radiant Peridot is currently much-loved in the world of high fashion. With modern style icons like the Princess of Wales, Helen Mirren, Jennifer Lopez and Anna Winter favouring its luxurious green sparkles on the red carpet. it has gained more fame and popularity in the last decade than ever before.
Peridot also has a strong link to feminism because the Suffragettes used in their outfits as a symbol of hope and change.
The Princess of Wales wearing Kiki McDonough Peridot, Aquamarine and Diamond Earrings - Dave Hogan
Symbolism and Properties
One of the most stunning features of Peridot is that it possesses a distinctive characteristic known as “double refraction” which means that when light passes through the gem, it bends and splits into two, which gives the stone amazing fire. It’s a gemstone that doesn’t darken when the night falls and it’s glow can be seen even in low light.
Peridot is believed to bring positivity, prosperity and growth to all that wear it.
It is thought to promote feelings of harmony, happiness and renewed energy.
In terms of healing properties, Peridot is often linked to enhancing emotional well-being, promoting balance, alleviating negativity, stress and anxiety and creating good vibes in your life.
Lastly, this birthstone can help you discover your hidden talents and lead you to your ultimate purpose in life.
Peridot Multi-Stone Pendant
Wendy Warren Jewellery
So the next time you’re looking for a stunning gemstone to add to your jewellery collection, consider the enchanting Peridot.
With it’s vivid green hue, rich history and healing properties it’s a gemstone that’ll win you over and make you feel like a true gem yourself!
