Were you born in August or do you have a relative or friend that was born in August? Well then it’s time you got... a Peridot!
This August birthstone is a particularly beautiful one and as part of its
Claddagh Birthstone Range, Rings from Ireland have a
Claddagh ring featuring the peridot stone at the center, available in silver, 10k and 14k yellow gold and also in 10k and 14k white gold.
The Claddagh is Ireland’s enduring symbol of love and to have the birthstone included makes it even more unique as a gift. There are also August birthstone Claddagh earrings and Claddagh pendants as part of the birthstone range.
But what is a Peridot? It’s not very well known, but the birthstone for August is a beautiful light green semi-precious mineral that has a fascinating and ancient history.
Otherwise known as the ‘evening emerald’, as its color did not darken at night, the peridot could still be appreciated by firelight or candlelight. It is also said to be a protector against negative emotions.
The Period is especially connected with ancient Egypt and it is believed by some historians that the famous jewels worn by Cleopatra that were said to be emeralds were actually peridots, a favourite gem of hers.
Peridot has a significant religious history and a role in ancient beliefs. Early Christians considered it sacred and Catholic Bishops still to this day traditionally wear a peridot and amethyst ring as a symbol of purity and morality.
The gem is referred to in ancient times as chrysolite and in the Bible as ‘pitdah’ – a Hebrew name. It was believed to have been a gift of Mother Nature to celebrate the annual creation of a new world. It was also brought back in to Europe by the Crusaders and can be seen in the decoration of Medieval churches, for example the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.
Another very famous Peridot association is with Napoleon, who was said to have used the gem to assure Josephine of his undying love.
The documented first ever source of peridot is a tiny island called Zabargard (St. John’s Island) owned by Egypt, four thousand years ago and it was subsequently introduced to Europe.
The largest cut peridot was also found on the island of Zabargad, weighing 319 carats and now belongs to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. In Russia there are some cut peridots from a meteorite that came down in Eastern Siberia in 1749. Peridot can also be sourced in the US, Burma, Australia, Norway, South Africa and is growing particularly popular in China where it is mined.
The affordability, availability and durability of Peridot makes it very popular for use in jewelry. From earrings to rings to cufflinks and pendants and bracelets, Peridot is extremely versatile and its hardness is comparable to quartz.
The Claddagh birthstone peridot ring, pendant or set of earrings is the perfect present for an August birthday. Wearing Peridot is said to bring protection, money and healing... what a combination!