Peridot

Peridot is a transparent to translucent gem that ranges in color from light yellowish green to a deep olive green color, and is usually faceted or sometimes cabochon cut.

Peridot gets its name from an Arabic word "faridat" meaning 'gem.' It was also sometimes known as Olivine. In olden times, Peridot was often confused with topaz or emerald. The ancient Egyptians knew it as the gem of the sun, and mined it on an island in the Red Sea, just off Egypt's coast. To develop it's full potential as a talisman, it was thought that Peridot must be set in yellow Gold. It would then protect its wearer against nightmares and terrors of the night, and served to ward off the evil eye.

Other legends credit Peridot with bringing happiness and good cheer, attracting lovers, and strengthening the eyes. It was also said to aid in digestion, and to cure liver ailments.

If strung on a Jackass' hair and worn tied to the left arm, Peridot would keep evil spirits at bay. Pliny wrote that Peridot was dull during daylight hours, but would glow like a hot coal by night.

Peridot is found today mostly in the USA, but also Australia, Brazil, and Burma. Care should be taken to protect Peridot from rough treatment and sudden temperature changes.

This gemstone forms in the core of the Earth and was carried to the surface by volcanic action, the same way as Diamonds.

There is another surprising source of Peridot: Meteorites. One Pallasite (stony Iron) Meteorite has been found with peridot crystals large enough to facet into small, and terribly expensive extraterrestial gemstones. What an origin, though!
Hardness: 6.5-7

Toughness: Fair to good

Birthstone: August