Gem of the Day: Peridot – The Stone of the Sun

Peridot, also known as "Precious Olivine," derives its mineralogical name "Olivine" from the Latin word for "edible olive." Its yellow-green hue closely resembles that of olive fruit, which inspired its name. Sometimes referred to as the "Emerald of the Evening," peridot is a rare and precious gemstone. It was first discovered over 3,500 years ago on Egypt's St. John’s Island. Ancient Egyptians believed peridot was a gift from the Sun God, associating it with solar energy and often using it to adorn statues and temples. Alongside lapis lazuli and emerald, peridot became a revered healing stone for the Egyptians.

Origins and Chemistry

  • Primary Sources: China, United States, Pakistan, Myanmar
  • Chemical Formula: (Mg,Fe)₂[SiO₄]

Purification Methods

Peridot can be cleansed using any method except for the sea salt method.

Elemental and Spiritual Connections

  • Five Elements: Fire
  • Chakra Alignment: Heart Chakra

Applications

Peridot is ideal for those who:

  • Struggle with long-term depression or negative thinking
  • Feel stuck and unable to progress
  • Wish to boost their social confidence and communication skills
  • Need to clear away negative energy
  • Experience external interference and seek inner peace
  • Face digestive or stomach-related issues

Zodiac and Personality Match

Peridot is the birthstone for Leo (♌) and serves as a lucky gemstone for ESFJ personality types, known as "The Executive."

Precautions for Care

  • Avoid Impact: Prevent peridot from colliding with hard objects.
  • Chemical Sensitivity: Keep it away from acidic substances and limit contact with sweat.
  • Temperature Caution: Avoid storing it in high-temperature environments or exposing it to direct sunlight.

How to Identify Authentic Peridot

  1. Color: Genuine peridot displays a uniform yellow-green or slightly yellowish-green color without visible bands or blotches. Overly vibrant or uneven colors may indicate a fake.
  2. Luster: Real peridot has a bright, glassy luster. If the stone appears dull or oily, it may not be genuine.
  3. Double Refraction: Peridot exhibits double refraction, which can be observed using a magnifying glass or other tools. A lack of double refraction suggests the stone is likely counterfeit.

Peridot’s association with solar energy, its vibrant beauty, and unique properties make it a cherished gemstone for both adornment and spiritual use. Handle it with care to preserve its brilliance and energy for years to come.

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