Peridot is a magnesium-rich, gem quality variety of olivine (a silicate mineral). Unlike most gemstones, it occurs in just a single color. In this case, that color is a lovely olive green. The green, however, may vary from yellowish to brownish, with the most valuable type exhibiting a well known deep olive green color. While olivine is a common mineral, peridot is rare and precious. It has been found in peridotite xenoliths of the mantle, lavas, and meteorites. It has been mined in Egypt, the United States, China, Australia, Brazil, Myanmar, Kenya, Mexico, Norway, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Pakistan, Tanzania and Sri Lanka. Peridot exhibits an orthorhombic crystal system, a Moh’s scale hardness of 6.5-7, a specific gravity of 3.2-4.3 and a vitreous luster. Historically, it has been considered sacred and a gift from Mother Nature and regarded as a symbol of morality, purity, admiration and undying love.

In the metaphysical world, peridot is believed to possess healing properties and magical powers that bring its keeper or wearer protection from nightmares and influence, power and a fulfilling year. It is said to be a crystal of “increase,” so in its presence, one might experience the manifestation of assertiveness, confidence, prosperity, happiness, and anything else that is desired. The resulting increase in self-esteem may then promote the release of guilt, anger, and jealousy from past experiences and facilitate overall emotional healing. Peridot is also a terrific stone to use in spiritual work, as it has been worn as protection from psychic attacks ever since ancient times. This stone represents the planet Mercury, the element of earth, the month of August, the 16th wedding anniversary, and the zodiac signs of gemini, virgo, leo, sagittarius and scorpio. It resonates with the heart and solar plexus chakras, and so while even wearing a small specimen on a ring should result in noticeable benefits for anyone, jewelry containing peridot should be worn as close to those areas as possible to achieve the maximum effect.

Peridot is valued by crystal healers for its alleged physical healing abilities, as well. It is said to cure ailments of the liver, kidneys, gall bladder, bladder, lungs, spleen, thymus, heart, digestive system and more. It is highly regarded as a detoxifier. It may also calm the nervous system, regenerate and heal damaged body tissue, strengthen the metabolism, and promote healthy skin (benefiting those suffering from insect bites, rashes, blemishes and/or skin disease). Additionally, it has been used to treat hypochondria and other phobias, insomnia, clinical depression, bipolar disorder, fevers and aid in the birthing process. Simply placing it on a laboring mother’s abdomen during childbirth is reported to result in lessening of pain, strengthening of muscle contractions, and shortening of the duration of the enti