All the Green Without the Envy
As a bona fide Leo, born in the month of August, I have always felt a connection to many of the characteristic “lioness” tendencies. Whether for good or bad, it is apparent that Leos are definitely a fiery breed.
This being said, it struck me as odd when I discovered that my birthstone was peridot. I remember thinking, “Green? Really?” I had always envisioned the birthstone of August as a bright red, vibrant orange or even a sparkling yellow- all colors that match the summer sun. Green, on the other hand, evoked a calming sense for me. That is until I actually saw peridot.
Anything but calming, peridot’s green is incredibly lively. When caught in the light, its color dances with a rich glow and a velvety luster. Formed as a result of volcanic activity (I guess it truly is “fiery”), peridot is among the oldest of the gemstones. Ancient Egyptians used to call them “gems of the sun” because of their dazzling brilliance when seen in the desert sunlight. In fact, Egyptians believed that peridot glowed even in darkness. Because of this, early miners in Egypt actually used to mine for peridot late at night, believing that the light of the moon made the crystals easier to find. Talk about a beacon of light!
Throughout history, peridot (pronounced “pear-a-doe”) was used as a means of connecting to nature, a trait that seems fitting for a gemstone that only occurs in the color green. However, that’s not to say there is only one shade of green: peridot can range from a yellowish-green to a dark olive color. Peridot is among the “greenest” of gems in another way too. Most peridot is mined, often by hand, by Native Americans on the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona.
This transparent crystal was once known to protect against evil, ward off depression and fear and keep one free from envy. Peridot is also said to bring divine inspiration, promote vitality, and strengthen the self as well as relationships. The property that I find most endearing about peridot is that it promotes new growth in years to come. Who wouldn’t want to wear a daily reminder that “the best is yet to come?”
Peridot is a fabulous gem to wear during the summer months because it matches very well with other citrus colors. My three favorite “Gemvarian” ways to wear peridot are in the Hera Earrings, a regal statement in gold, the Heartbeat Band, mixed with diamonds this is a real dazzler, and the Large Gemstone Solitaire Pendant, a stunning statement to match an August baby’s striking personality!
