Peridot 橄榄石

Deposit sites: U.S.A., Australia, Brazil, Burma, China, Egypt, Kenya, Mexico, Norway, Italy, Germany, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.

Group: Olivine

Hardness: 6.5 ~ 7

Zodiacal sign: Leo, Gemini.

Color scheme: green, olive green, yellowish green to brownish green.

Gemstone of the month: August, 16th Wedding Anniversary

Due to the spiritual significance of this brilliantly sparkling, clear golden-green stone, peridot was mined only at night by many of the ancients. Known as the “gem of the sun,” this stone was believed to have the power to ward off darkness and evil spirits and assure marital happiness.

Often called olivine because of its olive green color, it was also prized by the ancient Egyptians and known to them as Topazion. In Hawaii, when explorers noticed the sparkling deposits of peridot on Mount Leahi, they mistakenly thought they had found diamonds. That is why Mount Leahi is more commonly known as “Diamond Head”. Peridot is believed by many people to prevent personal darkness from your fears and guilt, so if you become fearful or depressed, a peridot could help you change your attitude .