WHAT IS PERIDOT?
Peridot (sometimes called Chrysolite) is the gem form of Olivine, a magnesium iron silicate mineral of the forsterite-fayalite family, with the amount of iron being responsible for the color.
While Olivine is an abundant mineral, gem-quality Peridot is rather rare, especially in larger stones. It varies from bright yellow-green, lime or pure green, to deep olive or brownish-green; the most valued being a dark olive-green.
HOW IS IT FORMED?
Unlike most gemstones formed in the earth’s crust, Peridot is formed in the earth’s upper mantle region (20 to 55 miles deep). Peridot crystals form in the earth’s magma and get erupted to the surface by tectonic or volcanic activity, where they are found in igneous rocks.
WHERE IS IT FOUND?
The principal source of peridot olivine today is the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona. It is also mined at another location in Arizona, and in Arkansas, Hawaii, Nevada, and New Mexico at Kilbourne Hole, in the US; and in Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Kenya, Mexico, Myanmar (Burma), Norway, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Peridot has also been found in meteorites that have crashed down onto the surface over the centuries. We can only assume these crystals either formed far, far away or were thrown out by the formation of the Earth and eventually crashed back down here billions of years later.
The gem has also been found on the Moon in rocks that were brought back to Earth during the iconic Apollo missions of the 1960s and 70s, and in 2003 NASA also found the gemstone on Mars!
METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
As a highly spiritual stone, peridot used to be believed to keep away evil and spirits. It is a protective stone and one that is particularly helpful for healers. It is believed to be a visionary crystal that helps you to understand your destiny and your spiritual purpose.
Peridot is a powerful cleanser. In The Crystal Bible by Judy Hall, peridot is described as a stone that alleviates jealousy, resentment, spite and anger and reduces stress. It is believed to enhance confidence and assertion without aggression.
Working with the heart chakra, peridot opens our hearts to joy and new relationships. It enhances confidence and assertion, motivating growth and change. Sharpens and opens the mind to new levels of awareness. Banishes lethargy, apathy and exhaustion. Peridot enables you to take responsibility for your own life..
BIRTHSTONE: August