Know Your Birthstone! August is Peridot.

Posted By Abazias in Precious Metals and Gemstones Add comments

Birthstones have been a part of human belief systems for a long time now. The earliest mentions of birthstones, their connection to various months and their ability to influence any individual’s life can be traced to ancient cultures in India and Babylonia. Subsequently, over the years, these beliefs migrated into the western cultures as well. While birthstones have enjoyed a lot of fame in the medieval and ancient ages, they have not been so popular in the modern times. However, in the last few years the popularity of birthstones has enjoyed a kind of resurgence as more and more people have started believing in their positive properties.

Each month has a birthstone designated to it. The current month of August is equated to the gemstone Peridot. Peridot is known as one of the few gemstones on the planet that is only found in one color. Peridot is typically olive green in color and the intensity of this green depends entirely on how much iron the gem contains in its composition. As is the case with emerald, Peridot is most appreciated in its darkest green color. Peridot can be classified as a form of the mineral Olivine.

While the precious mineral Olivine is fairly common in the world, gem quality versions of it i.e. Peridot are very rare. The reason for this is that Peridot is primarily created in volcanoes because it requires intense pressure and heat to be formed. It is worth mentioning that even Peridot can be found in different corners of the world, and its best quality has been recovered from Italy. Meteorites have also been known to carry a good amount of Peridot in them.

Historically speaking, Peridot has enjoyed a wide variety of names in the history of mankind. In ancient times it was called the “gem of the sun”. Another name that Peridot was commonly known by in ancient times was Chrysolite. In ancient Rome, Peridot, owing to its green color, was referred to as the evening emerald as it retained its luster even at night. On the island of Hawaii, Peridot is supposed to embody the tears of the local god of fire and volcanoes, Pele.

Peridot is primarily known to have healing properties for people who wear it. It is said to be particularly effective for health problems related to the sinuses, lungs, breasts and lymph nodes. Peridot is also supposed to bring fame, prosperity and dignity to the wearer apart from being extremely useful in countering nightmares. Furthermore, protection is also one of the virtues of Peridot as it can protect its wearer from evil spirits.

Peridot is perfect for wearing casually because it is a hard gemstone that can resist a lot of abuse. It is typically a perfect gift for an individual who is born in the month of August. Celebrities have been known to swear by the virtues of birthstones in general and Peridot in particular. Here is a list of some celebrities who are lucky enough to benefit in the long term by wearing Peridot.