The Gemstone for August Birthstone Jewelry - The Peridot

The beautiful gemstone used in August birthstone jewelry is the Peridot and it is also the gem assigned to celebrate the sixteenth wedding anniversary. Peridot is a combination of two minerals, forsterite and foylite that is called olivine. It's name is thought to come from either the French word, peritot, meaning unclear, or the Arabic word for gem, faridat. Before the eighteen century, when the French began calling it peridot, it was simply called topaz.

For over 4000 years peridot has been mined as a gemstone and is even referenced in the Bible where it was called by the Hewbrews, pitdah. Peridot is the state jewel of Egypt and was a favorite of Egyptians as early as 1500 B.C. It was named the 'gem of the sun' as early miners thought that it shone with a green light that made the crystal easy to locate. This gorgeous precious stone is becoming wildly fashionable because of the stories naming it as the favorite gemstone of Cleopatra.

Description of the Peridot Jewel

Throughout time and years this valuable August precious stone has often been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone is usually described as a light sea green with a hint of yellow. The gems most often confused with the peridot are apatite, zircon, garnets and emeralds, all of which seldom have the nice component of yellow that compliments the peridot's green color.

The Quality of Peridot Gemstones

Peridots that contain less than 15% iron and trace elements nickel and chromium are considered to be the finest. Peridot comes from 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. In the past the best quality peridot came from Egypt however some significant crystals have been found in Pakistan that are challenging this claim.. The gemstones that come from Arizona are of inferior quality but are more plentiful, so making them within reach of many people. In the region of 85% to 95% of world production of peridot is from Arizona. The gemstones produced in Egypt and Pakistan are better quality and rarer and consequently are quite valuable.

Mystical Powers of the Peridot

This beautiful August birthstone symbolizes success and dignity and it's also thought of a shield for the whole body as it keeps away negativity. It is also linked with stress reduction and relaxation. The Egyptians used this gem to as a cleanser for the heart. A number of illnesses such as asthma and fever were thought to be cured by placing some 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 jewel and is becoming increasingly fashionable. Peridot gems can be enjoyable collectors items and they make perfect August birthstone jewelry gifts.