The Peridot Phenomenon By Andrew Stratton At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Cleopatra thought they were so beautiful, she mistook them for emeralds. But, the peridot has a color all its own.

What exactly is a peridot?

Peridot is a mineral of the olivine family. It is made up of iron magnesium silicate. It is the iron that determines how light or dark the shade of green is. The shades of green range from very pale, lime to a darker olive green color. Gold and brown undertones are common. These hues look especially nice set in gold as a peridot and diamond bracelet.

There are a couple of other names that refer to these gems. Chrysolite or "golden stone" refers to a golden variety. Peridot is also called precious olivine. It is a member of the olivine mineral family.

Where Are They Mined?

Since 1500 B.C., the ancient Egyptians mined these gems from a tiny island in the middle of the Red Sea. However, the Egyptians and the Romans exhausted the supply from this mine long ago. Today, the most desirable stones come from Pakistan. In the mid-1990s, a large deposit was found high up in mountains of Kashmir. These stones are known for their excellent quality and lush color. The Kashmir peridot and diamond bracelet you’re wearing traveled a long way to your wrist.

Other mine locations are in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Brazil and Australia. There is also a mine on an Apache Indian reservation in Arizona. They have sole rights to mine the area. Though it is not a source for usable stones, the gems have even been found in meteorites that have fallen from space.

August birthstone

For those born in August, peridot ring birthstone jewelry is a common gift. This is because the lovely green stone is the official birthstone designated for the month of August.

Birthdays are not the only special occasions commemorated with a gemstone. A peridot and diamond bracelet makes a great 16th wedding anniversary present.

Proper Care for Your Gemstone

These beautiful stones rank no more than a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness which means that they are somewhat delicate. You certainly don't want to bang your peridot and diamond ring into walls. The diamond can take it, but these gems just might crack. Also, don't clean them in harsh chemicals or in an ultrasonic cleaner. All you have to do it soak them in soapy warm water and wipe down with a soft cloth to return them to their original vibrancy.

Healing Properties

Though once mistaken for emeralds, these gemstones are now seen as precious in their own right. Most gemstones have mystical and magical properties associated with them. These lovely green gems also have healing properties associated with them. One ancient cure for asthma is to crush up the stone and ingest it. It is supposed to increase strength and vitality. It also has a calming effect, reduces anxiety and sad feelings. The stones are also supposed to support the functions of the body when worn. So, you may have overall good health if you wear peridot rings.

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