Alternative Names: Olivine, Night Emerald
Origin: Worldwide, notably Pakistan, U.S.A.
Mineral Species: Olivine Group
Mineral Group: Silicates
Chemical Formula: (Fe,Mg)2SiO4
Hardness: 6.5-7
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Colour: Pale to bright green
Typical Appearance: Usually massive crystalline aggregates, occasionally as individual crystals.
Birthstone: Birthstone for Virgo (23rd August - 22nd September), Secondary Birthstone for Leo, Scorpio and Sagittarius
Chakra Alignment: Upper Heart and Heart; Solar Plexus and Sacral
Element: None
Origin of Name & Mythology: Peridot was used in Ancient Egypt for jewellery and in healing from as early as 1580 – 1350 BC. In the Middle Ages it was used to ward off evil spirits and to bestow wisdom and friendship. For many centuries it was considered to be a symbol of the sun. In ancient times, it was often confused with emerald, and many of the traditions attributed to emerald apply to peridot as well.
Peridot was used in Ancient Egypt for jewellery and healing from 4000 years ago. In the Middle Ages it was used for warding off evil spirits and to bestow wisdom and friendship. It connects with the Upper Heart and Heart Chakras, and its light, gentle energy is balancing, mood-lifting and detoxifying. It strengthens the immune system, and is particularly good for filtre organs, especially liver and kidneys.
Peridot can also be used to treat skin complaints, both by wearing and also by bathing in its crystal water. Peridot nurtures, gives a sense of being 'held in light', and also of inner flow, helping us to feel calm, still and optimistic.
