What is Peridot?

Peridot is a vibrant gem that stands out for its stunning green color. But it is more than its appearance that makes it unique. It is also said to have healing properties and metaphysical characteristics that bring good vibes to peridot jewelry wearers.

Although peridot is very lovely and spiritually beneficial, it is also very delicate. Its Mohr hardness rating ranks between 6.5 and 7 making it softer than most other gems. It can easily become damaged and must be stored carefully.



What Color is Peridot?

Peridot is a derivative of olivine, a mineral that forms deep inside the earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. The gem’s exquisite green color comes from the mineral composition of the stone rather than the trace impurities that give so many other stones their luster.

As a result, it is one of the few stones that only come in one color. However, its tone may vary from a yellowish green to a brownish green.

Peridot Geography and History

The earliest record of peridot mining can be traced back to 340-279 B.C. and the island of Zabargad in Ancient Egypt. The island was a terrific source of gem-like specimens that are displayed in museums throughout the world to this day. However, due to brutal living conditions, it is no longer a thriving mining community.

Today, green peridot can be found in destinations throughout the world. China, Pakistan, the United States, Myanmar, and Vietnam are just some of the countries that produce the gem.

Arizona is a prime peridot destination. 95% of the world’s peridot is mined on Arizona’s San Carlos Apache Indian reservation.


What are the Peridot Healing Properties?

Peridots are known for their ability to improve mood and bring good luck. But they also have mental and physical healing properties. Here are some to consider:

  • Detoxification: The peridot green color caused ancient healers to associate the gem with detoxification. Many believed it could improve health in the liver, gall bladder, and digestive system. It was also thought to regenerate cells and tissues and speed up metabolism.

  • Improved Skin Health: Wrinkles, acne, dull skin? Why spend money on cosmetic products when you can buy a beautiful green peridot? Many believed it could clear up rashes and other skin conditions, and produce a glowing, dewy complexion.

  • Let Go of Negativity: Emotions like jealousy, resentment, and spite can eat away at you. Peridot is said to help people let go of these emotional issues. Once you get past these negative emotions, you will reduce stress and anxiety levels and sleep better at night.

  • Improves Focus: Cramming for a tough exam? Green peridot could be the perfect study buddy. It is said to increase focus so you can ace tests and be productive at any task.

  • Reduces Fever: Some claim peridots can reduce fevers. This theory may seem like an old wives’ tale, but a homeopathic remedy called the Peridot Pellet means there may be more to it than myths and fables.

  • Reduces Birthing Pain: Peridot’s ability to reduce muscle contractions makes it a popular item in birthing centers and maternity wards for spiritual midwives and moms-to-be.


Peridot Spiritual Meaning

Peridot’s spiritual history can be traced back to ancient times. It was originally sourced from the Red Sea, a body of water associated with salvation. Its proximity to the shores of Egypt meant many Egyptians would wear the stones to flaunt their vibrant beauty and surround themselves with the good luck the gems brought.

Ancient Egypt is buried in the past, but the peridot still holds its spiritual meaning. It is said to connect to the heart chakra which serves as a center for self-love and the love of others. It promotes empathy, compassion, and forgiveness.

To better understand Peridot's spiritual meaning, let’s take a closer look at the heart chakra and how it affects well-being.

Chakras are said to bring balance to the body. They allow energy to flow through the body. When a chakra becomes blocked, it can lead to anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues.

There are seven chakras in the body, and the heart chakra is the fourth. Also called the Anahata chakra, it is associated with the color green. It was assigned its vibrant color by the ancient rishis who meditated on chakra energy.

When your heart chakra is open, you let go of negative emotions. You see the joy and love in everything around you. You connect better with the people in your life.

When your chakra is closed, you hold on to negative emotions. You experience stress in your relationships and have difficulty sleeping at night. Some say a blocked chakra can even lead to serious medical conditions like respiratory and circulatory issues.

The natural peridot stone will keep your heart chakra open, so you make the most of the positivity in your life. It will prevent you from giving in to negative emotions that can impact your physical and mental well-being.

What are Peridot Metaphysical Properties?

Metaphysical properties refer to a gemstone’s ability to create spiritual and supernatural changes in a person and their environment. So, what are peridot metaphysical properties?

A peridot goes to the core of our beings. It has a positive impact on our health. It minimizes stress, improves sleep, and balances our emotional and mental core. It inspires creativity, minimizes anger, and improves mood.

The stone’s energy can help forge better personal and professional relationships. Single but looking to mingle? Some say the peridot can even help you find love.

If we journey back in time, we will find out even more about peridot metaphysical properties. Ancient spiritual philosophers believed that a peridot set in gold was a talisman to ward off evil. It would reduce nighttime terrors and nightmares.

The Russian philosopher, Pliny the Elder, also believed in peridot’s ability to chase away nightmares. He believed talismans, such as peridot bracelets, should be worn on the right arm to ward off evil. Others believed its ability to calm negative emotions made it the perfect way to protect oneself from the evil eye.

The stone has long been linked to mythology. Hawaiian people believed it symbolized the tears of the goddess Pele, who controls the flow of lava from volcanos. Her fiery personality matches the gem’s vibrant beauty.

The peridot also has a place in the Bible. Its protective properties made it a common amulet in warrior breastplates. The Book mentions a peridot in the breastplate of Aaron, a priest and warrior identified as Moses’s brother.

The Bible also mentions the peridot was found in the layers of the earth in New Jerusalem. It was said to protect the city.


The August Peridot Birthstone

Like many gems, peridot is one of the twelve birthstones. The peridot birthstone month is August. It makes sense that the peridot would be the August birthstone as it is formed under extreme heat and pressure.

As August's birthstone, the peridot is ideal for people who fall under the Zodiac signs of Leo (July 23- August 22), and Virgo (August 23- Sept. 22). Let’s see how those signs align with peridot meaning.

Leos

Leos are full of life and like to be the center of attention. These traits make them highly entertaining and inspirational. Their positivity is infectious. They can help friends and relatives see the bright side in any situation. Their sense of focus helps them turn their dreams into reality.

However, Leos’ constant demand for attention can also have its downsides. A lack of self-actualization brings out traits like narrow-mindedness, conceit, and a need for domination. They may turn on you if they don’t feel you’re not giving them the respect they deserve.

One can easily make the connection between a Leo and a peridot gem. The gem captures a Leo’s fiery nature. It provides the balance they need to promote positivity and avoid narcissistic tendencies.

Virgos

Virgos have a lot to offer. Their loyalty and selflessness make them great friend material. They are hardworking and industrious. Their sensitivity to their surroundings makes them highly detail oriented.

 

Unfortunately, Virgo’s high standards can work against them. Their sensitivity can cause them to get insulted easily. Their ability to tune in to their surroundings can make them hypercritical. They also tend to be perfectionists which can make them expect too much of themselves and others.

 

Like Leos, Virgos need the peridot’s magic to help them achieve balance. They may use it to bring out their selfless, loyal traits and form strong relationships. The stone will help them open their hearts to the love in their lives and leave negativity behind them.

Conclusion

The peridot is a lovely gemstone that bears a unique green color that indicates its fiery nature. It offers emotional peridot stone benefits, mainly in its ability to help people let go of negativity so they can improve their emotional well-being. Some healers believe it can also treat physical ailments.

Green peridot is a powerful stone, but it must be worn carefully. Its soft texture makes it vulnerable to the elements. Perhaps, this is part of what makes it such a revered, precious gem.

How do you incorporate peridot into your life?