Egypt’s Peridot {August Alternate Birthstone}

Peridot History

Shimmering, pale green peridot–often called the evening emerald–is a gemstone commonly associated with spirituality and expression. The word “peridot” can be pronounced as “PAIR-uh-doe” or “PAIR-uh-dot.” While both pronunciations are found in the dictionary, the actual word of origin for peridot is from the French word peritôt, meaning unclear, because of the numerous inclusions and internal fractures often found within peridot gemstone beads. Chrysolite (an older German word) was also used to describe it before the word peridot was applied to all gem quality peridot stones.

Sometimes also referred to as olivine, it is only found in one color–green. This uncommon green color is best known simply as peridot green and it varies from olive to brownish green. This green was highly prized by ancient admirers because it was often thought to be emerald, which is one of the greatest compliments peridot could ever receive. It is…