Peridot Beads

Considered by the ancients to be a gem of the spring, the beautiful green of peridot shines like new leaves in May. A rare, gem-quality form of olivine, peridot is the birthstone for August. Peridot Beads come from several locations including Egypt, Myanmar, Burma, South Africa, Australia, Norway, Brazil, Arizona and Hawaii. Unlike quartz, agates or opals, this gemstone bead is only found in one color, which is often described as bottle green.

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One Gem with Many Names

Peridot is mentioned in the Bible, but it is called chrysolite. It was valued as a sacred stone and is one of the stones, along with amethyst, often used in bishop’s rings. Some peridot jewelry enthusiasts make a distinction between chrysolite, peridot and olivine, with the light, yellowish green stones called chrysolite, the darker, grass green stones called peridot and the dark olive gems called olivine. All of the stones are forms of olivine, although most specimens found are not of gemstone quality. Peridot is rare and is considered a precious stone.

Egyptian Origins

The first recorded mention of peridot is from ancient Egypt on the island of Zabargard. One of the pharaohs enslaved the population of the island and forced them to mine the gems. There is some speculation that Cleopatra’s emeralds were actually peridots. The island was renamed St. John’s Island by crusaders who brought the gem back to Europe when they returned home. There was some confusion between peridots and emeralds at this time, although the gems are believed to be peridots. Peridot beads came to symbolize purity during the Middle Ages, and it was also believed that dreaming about peridot was a sign of impending danger.

Outer Space

Peridot is one of the gems most commonly found in meteorites, particularly the pallasite variety. This is probably due to the high iron content in this type of meteorite. The green color of peridot is caused by the presence of iron when the crystals are forming. Pallasite meteorites resemble stained glass with pieces of clear, green peridot surrounded by a framework of iron.

Stone of Clarity

Peridot is used by crystal healers to bring clarity and new beginnings. It is a symbol of spring renewal, lightness and beauty. It is said that only spiritually oriented people can benefit from wearing peridot jewelry, because people who are too bound to earth by everyday problems cannot recognize its soothing effect. Peridot beads are used to protect the wearer against negative emotions. It is also said to have a positive effect on illnesses of the gallbladder and liver.

The green color of peridot identifies it as one of the gems of abundance. In addition to attracting wealth and prosperity, peridot is a stone of renewal and transformation in relationships as well. Its transformational effects help couples who are having difficulties make a new start in their marriage. Include some out-of-this-world peridot beads in your next necklace!