Peridot

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Peridot 

(pron.: /ˈpɛrɨdoʊ/ or /ˈpɛrɨdɒt/) is gem-quality olivine. Olivine is a silicate mineral with formula of (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. As peridot is the magnesium-rich variety (forsterite) the formula approaches Mg2SiO4.

The origin of the name "peridot" is uncertain. The Oxford English Dictionary suggests an alteration of Anglo–Norman pedoretés (classical Latin pæderot-), a kind of opal, rather than the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem".

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color, an olive green. The intensity and tint of the green, however, depends on how much iron is contained in the crystal structure, so the color of individual peridot gems can vary from yellow- to olive- to brownish-green. The most valued color is a dark olive-green

Color     Yellow, to yellow-green, olive-green, to brownish, sometimes a lime-green, to emerald-ish hue

Crystal system   Orthorhombic

Cleavage              Poor

Fracture               Conchoidal

Mohs scale hardness      6.5–7

Luster   Vitreous (glassy)

Streak   White

Specific gravity  3.2–4.3

Refractive index               1.64–1.70

Birefringence     +0.036

Olivine, of which peridot is a type, is a common mineral in mafic and ultramafic rocks, and it is often found in lavas and in peridotite xenoliths of the mantle, which lavas carry to the surface; but gem quality peridot only occurs in a fraction of these settings. Peridot can be also found in meteorites.

Olivine in general is a very abundant mineral, but gem quality peridot is rather rare. This mineral is precious.

Peridot olivine is mined in Egypt, North Carolina, Arizona on the San Carlos Reservation, Hawaii, Nevada, and New Mexico at Kilbourne Hole, in the US; and in Australia, Brazil, China, Kenya, Mexico, Myanmar (Burma), Norway, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.

Mystical Properties:

Peridot is told to have the ability to bring healing and vitality to the whole body. It it said to increase patience, confidence and assertiveness. Stories told since ancient times about how this gemstone has the ability to slow the aging process.

The joyful and friendly energy of this stone helps to make and seal friendships, it clears the heart, releases the ego, which in turn cleanses jealousy and anger, hence bringing about a sense of peace and quiet amusement.

A visionary stone, peridot helps connect us to our destinies and to an understanding of the purpose of existence. Can assist us in visualize not only the ultimate peak of physical but of spiritual continuation as well. However, if you are confused or fearful, Peridot should be used in a limited way, as it releases toxins and brings them to the surface, thus neutralizing them.

Healing Properties:

Peridot reduces stress, stimulates the mind, and amplifies intuitive awareness. It is most useful as a balancer of the glandular system, as peridot assists with tissue regeneration and purifies the body by strengthening the blood. It is also told to aid in digestion and to reduce fever.

Commonly used in treating emotional states such as anger or jealousy and irritation. It's color as well as the stone, Inspires healing, renewal, purification, rebirth and growth. It has the power to heal hurt feelings and mend damaged relationships.

Magical Properties:

Peridot reduces stress, stimulates the mind, and amplifies intuitive awareness. It is most useful as a balancer of the glandular system, as peridot assists with tissue regeneration and purifies the body by strengthening the blood. It is also told to aid in digestion and to reduce fever.

Commonly used in treating emotional states such as anger or jealousy and irritation. It's color as well as the stone, Inspires healing, renewal, purification, rebirth and growth. It has the power to heal hurt feelings and mend damaged relationships.

It is especially good for healing the healers.

Zodiac:

Associations: Venus and Sun

Traditional Birthstone for the Month of August.

Stone of Virgo, Leo and Sagittarius. To dream of peridot signifies that you need to be cautious for a period of time.

Chakra

Clears 4th, or Heart Chakra pathway, strengthening breath of life, prosperity, growth and openness. Peridot when used to cleanse and to stimulate the 4th, or Heart Chakra and 3rd, or Solar Plexus Chakra, brings openness and acceptance to the intellectual pursuit in matters of love and relationships.

For specific chakra work though, because it acts to seal the aura, it is suggested that peridot be removed while working on chakras other than the heart and solar plexus.