Peridot has long been associated with light; the Egyptians named peridot the “gem of the sun.”  The word peridot originates from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem.” Peridot forms deep inside the Earth and is brought to the surface by volcanoes.  Although extremely rare, extraterrestrial peridots can also be discovered in meteorites.

From the earliest times, people confused peridots with other gems.  Peridot was mistakenly labeled as emerald, topaz and green sapphire.  Some historians even believe that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection may have been peridot.  For centuries people believed that the 200 carat gems that adorn the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany's Cologne Cathedral were emeralds.  They aren't!  They are, in fat, peridots.

The color range for peridot is narrow, from a brown-green color to yellowish green to pure green. However, the yellowish green is the most common peridot color seen in jewelry today, and available at all price points.

Peridot was once believed to protect its bearer from depression, and "terrors of the night" when enhanced in gold. This gemstone of light is said to counter and balance the effects of negative emotions, and provide security and inner peace. The beautiful yellow-green color of peridot not only stimulates ones energy level, but the lover of this gemstone will undoubtedly collect many peridots, as it is believed to promote vitality and joy.

Enjoy your birthstone.  May it bring you all of these qualities and more.