Gemology - Learning About Gemstones - Peridot

It's time to learn about another gemstone. I wanted to choose something to which I gravitate and something that can be easily found in my shop as well as my own jewelry box. Peridot, the birthstone of August, is one of the few gemstones that can only be found in one color - green. I love green. It represents new life and growth. It's pleasant and warm and yet has a coolness to it as well.

Tree of Life Pendant

Peridot is iron-magnesium-silicate. The deepness of the green is determined by how much iron is contained. Peridot can be found all over the world, but the best sources of truly beautiful peridot is mined from Pakistan and Afghanistan. Okay, that's boring. It's pretty! Who cares how it gets its color or what its made of!

Peridot gets its name from the Greek word "peridona" which means something like "giving plenty." For this reason, it is sometimes called the "money stone." Carry peridot with you and it will help bring you wealth and opportunity. Carry citrine with the peridot and the citrine will help you keep the wealth. So "they" say... Wish that was always true!

Delicate Peridot and Gold Earrings

Said to help move past old emotional wounds and hurts, peridot is said to foster emotional balance. It helps heal the healer - physician, heal thyself! Peridot can help to bring clarity, understanding of destiny and purpose, and release negativity.

Considered a natural tonic of sorts, peridot has been used to help cleanse and heal the body, stimulating new healthy growth. It was used to treat depression by the Romans in ancient times. And is thought to encourage well-being and stress relief.

An interesting piece I found about peridot involves Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Peridot is recommended as a gift to beginners of AA as a detoxing stone. Peridot helps the body release the toxins on all levels throughout the body, easing the transition to sobriety.

Silver Tree of Life Pendant

Peridot is such a wonderful stone. I absolutely love it. I've always been fond of green stones, probably from being born in May with emerald as my own birthstone. But there is truth to the metaphysical properties of gemstones...I can't explain it, but sometimes when I wear certain gemstones, I feel complete.If you don't buy into the metaphysical properties, that's fine. But choose jewelry with gemstones that you love. If you are drawn to certain stones, listen to that nudge! There might be a reason for it. :)