August Birthstone Earrings - Little-Known Facts About Peridot

Peridot, known as the "Evening Emerald," is a gemstone with a fascinating history. Peridot is also the birthstone of the month of August and it's believed to bring good luck and protection against evil.

Whether worn as a symbol of your birth month or to add a touch of beauty to your outfit, August birthstone earrings can become a statement piece that complements any style. Peridot earrings like these, which are crafted in 14k yellow gold are also a great gift for those who appreciate quality and understated luxury.

Today, I want to dive deeper into the mesmerizing world of peridot and share with you why I find it so tranquil and beautiful which you can see reflected in these stunning earrings.

History and Symbolism of Peridot: The Captivating Gemstone of August

Peridot, the birthstone for August, has a rich and captivating history that spans centuries. This mesmerizing gemstone, also known as the "Evening Emerald," has been treasured by various civilizations throughout the ages, each adding to its allure and mystique.

The origins of peridot can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was mined on the volcanic island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea. The Egyptians revered peridot for its ability to ward off the "evil eye" and believed it possessed the power to instill peace, prosperity, and good fortune. Cleopatra, the legendary Queen of Egypt, was said to love wearing peridot jewelry, further solidifying its status as a symbol of royalty and opulence.

Over the centuries, peridot has been associated with numerous spiritual and metaphysical properties. In ancient times, it was believed to have the ability to dispel negative energy, promote healing, and even enhance the wearer's intuition. The gemstone's vibrant green hue was also thought to represent the renewal of life, making it a popular choice for ceremonial and religious purposes.

Peridot Meaning and Properties

Peridot is a unique and captivating gemstone, known for its distinctive green hue that ranges from a delicate, pale olive to a rich, deep green. This variance in color is due to the presence of iron within the gemstone's chemical composition, which also contributes to its durability and resilience.

One of the defining characteristics of peridot is its ability to maintain its brilliant color even in low light conditions, earning it the moniker of the "Evening Emerald." This unique property makes Peridot an ideal choice for evening wear and formal occasions, where its luminous glow can truly shine.

In addition to its captivating color, peridot is also highly prized for its exceptional clarity and transparency. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot is rarely found with inclusions or blemishes, allowing its natural beauty to be fully appreciated. This clarity, combined with its vivid green hue, gives peridot an unparalleled brilliance and fire that captivates the eye.

Peridot is a relatively hard gemstone, ranking 6.5-7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear and a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry designs. Its durability and resistance to chipping or scratching make it a practical and long-lasting option for earrings, pendants, and other pieces of jewelry.

The Country of Origin: Exploring the Mines of Peridot

The primary source of peridot is the volcanic island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea off the coast of Egypt.  This remote and rugged island has been a significant producer of peridot for centuries, with ancient Egyptians mining the gemstone as early as 1500 BC.

By Kocourek Aleš at Czech Wikipedia - Transferred from cs.wikipedia to Commons., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9024455

The peridot found on Zabargad is renowned for its exceptional quality and vibrant green hue, which is often considered the finest in the world. The island's unique geological composition, formed by ancient volcanic activity, provides the perfect environment for the growth of these captivating gemstones.

In addition to Zabargad, peridot can also be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Myanmar, Pakistan, and China. However, the peridot from Zabargad is often considered the most valuable and sought-after, due to its unparalleled clarity, color, and historical significance.

The process of mining peridot on Zabargad is arduous and challenging, as the island's remote location and harsh terrain make it difficult to access. The gemstones are typically found embedded in the island's volcanic rock, requiring skilled miners to carefully extract them without damaging their delicate structure.
 

Care and Maintenance of Peridot Earrings: Preserving the Brilliance

Peridot earrings, with their captivating green hue and sparkling brilliance, require proper care and maintenance to ensure they retain their beauty for years to come. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure your peridot earrings remain a cherished part of your jewelry collection.

One of the most important aspects of caring for peridot earrings is to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, such as those found in household cleaners, perfumes, and cosmetics. These substances can react with the gemstone, causing it to lose its luster and potentially damage the setting. When handling your peridot earrings, it's best to remove them and store them safely in a jewelry box or pouch.

Cleaning peridot earrings is a delicate process that requires a gentle touch. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or harsh scrubbing, as these can cause damage to the gemstone. Instead, gently wipe the earrings with a soft, damp cloth, taking care not to get water in the setting. For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a mild, non-abrasive soap and warm water, but be sure to rinse the earrings thoroughly and dry them completely before wearing them.

When it comes to storage, peridot earrings should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Storing them in your original Yarema Jewelry packaging with soft, padded lining can help prevent scratches and protect the delicate setting. It's also important to avoid storing peridot earrings with other jewelry, as the gemstones can potentially scratch or damage each other.

The captivating allure of peridot earrings is a testament to the timeless beauty and rich history of this remarkable gemstone. From its ancient Egyptian roots to its enduring symbolism of good luck, positive energy, and protection, peridot has long been revered for its unique and mesmerizing qualities.

Whether you're celebrating your August birthday or simply seeking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your jewelry collection, peridot earrings are a beautiful choice. Their vibrant green hue and exceptional clarity make them a standout accessory that can elevate any outfit, from casual day-to-day wear to formal evening attire. They also make a meaningful gift that can be given to a loved one.

By embracing the beauty of peridot, you're not only adorning yourself with a piece of timeless and captivating jewelry, but you're also connecting to the rich history and cultural significance of this remarkable gemstone. So, indulge in the opulence of August birthstone earrings and let the allure of peridot captivate you and those around you.