Peridot, August’s Birthstone, is Out of This World…

If you’re looking for a birthstone with origins in outer-space and the depths of the earth, then the peridot is for you. It’s also the perfect summer stone, reflecting the bright, lush green of summer grass, plants, and trees.

Origins

• From earth: The peridot is one of two minerals (along with the diamond) that doesn’t come from the earth’s crust. It comes from the molten rock that’s deep within the earth—and is forced to the surface through violent earthquakes or volcanos.
• From outer space: This is the only wearable, transparent gemstone that comes from outside our planet. According to the GIA, peridots arrive from pallasite meteorites (made of nickel-iron and olivine).
• The International Colored Gemstone Association says, “…a faceted pallasitic peridot is called “Palladot.” These small, typically brownish yellow-green gems are definitely for those who want something no one else has— and they are priced accordingly.”

Peridot facts

• They’re believed to be about 4.5 billion years old.
• It’s a gem-quality version of the element olivine. It gets its green color from the amount of iron that’s within it.
• Throughout history, the peridot has been confused with emerald and topaz.
• Ancient Romans called it the “Evening Emerald” because it had a flash of green even at night; the Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun.”
• This is one of the few gems that comes in only one color, green (from lime to olive).

Healing properties of this gemstone

• Strength and balance; harmonizes mind and body. Works on the heart chakra.
• As a stone of light, it was said to counter negative emotions and bring inner peace. 
• Peridot was used for centuries to protect wearers from evil.
• Some believe it releases toxins and reduces jealousy, resentment, stress, anger, and guilt.  

Buying and care of peridot jewelry

• Most desirable color is “grass-green” with no tinges of yellow or brown. The more saturated the green, the more costly the stone.
• A Mohs scale rating of 6.5-7 makes it softer than other gemstones. Care should be taken if it’s used for everyday jewelry that might be knocked around, like a ring.
• It can be damaged by acidic perspiration; you should never use steam or ultrasonic cleaners with this stone, since it can shatter. Warm water and soap work best.
• Don’t store your peridot jewelry with other gemstones because it can be scratched.

Enjoy this gemstone, from far above and far below, that brings all of summer’s brightness to your jewelry. And give yourself peace of mind for all your heirlooms—get an updated appraisal for insurance or for inheritance purposes. Contact me at 617-304-0174 or at aimee@ambappraisal.com.

Wishing you all the joys of summer, Aimee