Peridot: The Birthstone for August
Peridot is one of the only gemstones in existence that is only found in one colour – lime green. This zesty gemstone is guaranteed to brighten your day, especially if your birthday is in August!
If you would like to find out more about August’s birthstone, Here are a few interesting facts about this beautiful gem:
1. Along with diamond, peridot is one of the only gemstones of mineral origin that is not formed in the earth’s crust. Instead, they are formed deep within the earth’s mantle, and brought to the surface by volcanic or tectonic activity.
2. Peridot has been has been mined as a gemstone for around 5000 years. This was testified by Pliny the Elder, the author of the first encyclopaedia.
3. It is estimated that around 80-95% of the world’s peridot comes from Arizona, although it can also be sourced from China, Pakistan and Myanmar.
4. Although peridot is characterised by its bright green appearance, the shade can vary from stone to stone, ranging from a bright yellow/green to an earthy olive colour. The brighter stones are more popular, but you can find peridot jewellery in a range of shades nonetheless.
5. Peridot gemstones are quite affordable if they are smaller than three carats, because this is the most common size. Stones over five carats are much rarer, and are therefore valued at a higher price.
6. The world’s largest cut peridot is an enormous 319 carats! It is kept at the Smithsonian Museum of National history in Washington, DC.
7. Peridot was seen as a symbol of the sun by ancient Egyptians, who created beads with the gemstone from as early as 1580 – 1350BC.
8. It is thought that peridot eases fear and anxiety, and can also prevent nightmares and insomnia.
9. Peridot jewellery started to become popular in Europe during the baroque period, and was also prevalent during the Victorian era. Later, the jewel was used to adorn the nature-inspired jewellery of the Art Nouveau era.
10. A diamond or an emerald can undergo a treatment process to improve the clarity of the stone; however, there is no known treatment for peridot, meaning that all peridot jewellery is completely natural.
If you are looking for a meaningful gift for an August birthday, Peridot jewellery is perfect. Whether it’s an antique Victorian or Art Nouveau piece, or you would prefer to shop for something more modern, we at Cuttings are here to help you find the ideal jewellery for your requirements.