The Egyptians called
peridot “the gem of the sun.” Legend says it was Cleopatra’s favorite gemstone, and historians now believe that many of the “emeralds” she wore were actually
peridot because Egypt and Burma were main providers of this gem during ancient times.
Cleopatra’s
peridot was not the only example from history when it was mistaken for emeralds. The Cathedral at Cologne holds within its walls a famous shrine known as the Three Holy Kings. It is adorned with beautiful jewels of all sorts. For centuries, one large gemstone that was thought to have been an emerald was recently identified as
peridot. In both of these examples, it’s easy to see how it was mistaken for the emerald because they bear a strong likeness to one another, but
peridot is softer in intensity.
Gem quality
peridot in the United States comes from Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii. Other sources are Norway, Burma, and islands in the Red Sea. In 1994, a new deposit was found in Pakistan containing some of the most beautiful and highly valued
peridots ever seen. Finally, one of the most unusual sources of this stone are those found in meteorites. They are called pallasites, and are the only gems known to come from space.
As with many gems, part of its value is based on clarity; the clearer it is, the more its worth. A
peridot of two to three carats is quite expensive, and an eight carat stone is very rare. One of the most beautiful and famous
peridots in the world is located in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC—it is 310 carats!
Because
Peridot has been around for thousands of years it is steeped in legend and folklore. Perhaps it has been known best throughout history for its healing properties. In ancient times, goblets made of
peridot were used for curing maladies because it was thought that medicinal liquids drunk from them were more effective. Other conditions
peridot is known to cure are insomnia, digestive distress, and soothing an upset nervous system.
Not only is
peridot known to heal, but it’s also known for protection. When worn as jewelry it was thought to protect its wearer from evil spirits and if set in gold, its powers were considered even more intense.
Peridot is symbolic of vitality and strength, associated with stress reduction and relaxation, and is known to enhance emotional well being by bringing happiness and good cheer to those who wear it. Clearly, this gemstone is valued not only for its beauty, but also for the rich history it contains within the very facets of its existence.
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https://www.swcreations.net/blogs/articles/
Topic: Cleopatra’s Favorite Gemstone (Read 2319 times)
