Peridot
The Green Light of Letting Go
Also known as: Gem Olivine, Chrysolite
About the stone
Peridot is the yellow-green to olive-green gem variety of olivine, treasured for more than 2,000 years; no individual discoverer is known, and its oldest recorded source is Egypt’s Zabargad (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea, where mining may have begun around 340–279 BCE. Today, sources include China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States, particularly Arizona. Also called “gem olivine,” historically “chrysolite” (a name once applied to several yellow-green gems), and poetically “evening emerald,” peridot was frequently mistaken for emerald or topaz in antiquity. The Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun,” and traditional lore credited it with warding off evil spirits and nighttime terrors, especially when set in gold.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Olivine is a group of magnesium-iron silicate minerals, (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, with calcium, manganese or nickel sometimes present; gem-quality olivine is called peridot.
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Olive green, yellow green and light brown.
- Specific gravity: 3.2-4.4 g/cm3
Metaphysical data
Peridot, recognized for its fresh green energy, has been used in metaphysical practices to release old burdens, restore enthusiasm and support healers on their path.
Grounding and Stabilizing Energy
- Peridot is believed to facilitate the removal of negative energies stored in the stomach and sacral chakra, easing a heavy, knotted feeling. It is thought to give energy to one's day, relieving lethargy, procrastination and apathy so that a person can move with fresh enthusiasm.
Emotional Healing
- Peridot is often used to release baggage, burdens, guilt, obsessions, jealousy, resentment, spite, anger and stress.
- It is thought to allow one to let go of the past and fully embrace their path, replacing old resentments with a lighter, forward-moving heart.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Peridot is associated with the solar plexus and heart chakras, joining personal will with open-hearted love.
- Its green energy is believed to cleanse these centers, helping courage and compassion flow together rather than compete.
Zodiac Associations
- Peridot is traditionally linked with the zodiac signs of Virgo, Leo, Scorpio and Sagittarius, a varied circle of careful, radiant, intense and adventurous spirits. It vibrates to the number 6 as, number of change and of harmonious care.
Spiritual Growth
- Peridot is thought to help one look within for guidance, rather than relying on others or outside influences.
- It are also said to serve healers and energy workers, and to encourage one to find their destiny and spiritual purpose.
Physical Healing
- Peridot is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and tradition's physical claims should never replace care for mental or physical illness. It are traditionally said to balance moods, ease worries about health, detoxify the body and purify the subtle bodies and mind in a symbolic sense.
Care and handling
Peridot is reasonably hard but brittle, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, and they can chip or crack from knocks. Clean them with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, strong acids and sudden temperature changes. Peridot is sensitive to some household chemicals and acids, so keep it away from vinegar and harsh cleaners. Store it padded, apart from harder stones such as quartz and corundum.
Individual experiences with Peridot vary, and their effects are a matter of personal belief. Use them mindfully, let go of what you are ready to release, and remember that supportive friends and professionals are valuable companions on any path.