The varying colors of summer green are reflected in August's birthstone - Peridot.  This vivid green gem with a hint of shimmering gold is a perfect go-along for the end-of-summer wardrobe.

Peridot has been used as a gemstone for thousands of years.  As far back as 2 B.C., Egyptians enslaved the people of St. John's Island in the Red Sea and forced the inhabitants to mine the stone. Other ancient mines are documented in Burma and Brazil.

More recent discoveries have included Pakistan and the America's.  New Mexico and Arizona have active mines.  Many stones of 4-5 carat uncut weight have come out of  mines at the San Carols Apache Reservation in Arizona.

Peridot is the state gemstone of Nevada.

Although peridot stones are usually small, Pakistan has yielded a gem over 300 carats. Finished stones are usually  faceted, table cut or cabochon depending on the size and nature of the crystals. 

Unlike many other gemstones, peridot comes in only one color - green.  Because the color is true and does not change even in arterial light, it has sometimes been called the 'emerald of the evening." 

Although there are cats eye and star peridot, they occur rarely and are quite valuable.  Peridot is a variety of the mineral Olivine.

Peridot is thought to bring the wearer good luck, peace and success.  It is thought to develop patience, encourage positively and prevent fear and guilt. 

During medieval times the stone was worn as part of an amulet to ward of demons but went romance during the Renaissance as a love stone.  Modern remedies include use of the crystal to stimulate tissue regeneration, help liver and adrenal function, give vitality and ward off stress.

Peridot is the gemstone of the Zodiac symbol Leo.

Peridot is not a particularly hard stone but is easy to keep. Protect it from scratches, sharp blows, sustained direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.  Do not clean in ultrasonic cleaner.  

Sources:
University of Nevada
International Colored Gemstone Association
USGS

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