Gemstone of the Month: August
NAME: Peridot
MEANING: The origin of the name peridot is unknown. The Oxford English Dictionary suggests it has an Anglo–Norman origin (classical Latin pæderot), but could also originate from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem" or the French word peritot, meaning gold.
COMMON SPECIES: Peridot is a silicate mineral, a magnesium rich variety of Olivine.
COLOUR: Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one colour: an olive-green.
MOHS HARDNESS: 6.5-7
OPTICAL PROPERTIES: Double refractive.
HISTORY IN JEWELLERY: In Ancient times, peridot stones were used for carved talismans.
LEGENDS: Legend says that if Peridot is set in gold, it will have the power to dispel terrors of the night- fears and bad dreams. Peridot has been long considered to be an aid to friendship and supposedly frees the mind of envious thoughts.
GIFTING: Peridot is the birthstone for those born in August. It is also the stone given to celebrate 16 years of marriage.
ASSOCIATIONS: Peridot is the National gem of Egypt.
SIMILAR GEMSTONES: Peridot is similar to the emerald but softer in intensity.
CARING FOR PERIDOT: The best and safest way for you to clean your peridot, is with warm, soapy water. You should take special care of your peridot to ensure that it does not come in contact with drastic temperature changes, which can damage the stone. We have workshops on site that can expertly clean your jewellery.
In Northampton, we’re based on Gold Street and in the Grosvenor Centre; in Banbury, we’re on the High Street. To get in touch with us, ring any of our showrooms; for Gold Street, call 01604 632 548. Call 01604 636 633 for the Grosvenor Centre showroom and 01295 263 540 for Banbury. Alternatively, send us a message through the contact form on our website.
