The Luminous Peridot: Illuminating August's Birthstone and Latelita's Finest

Amidst the pantheon of precious gemstones, Peridot, with its distinctive lime green glow, holds a special place as August's birthstone. This gemstone, rich in history and lore, offers a unique blend of beauty and mystique. In this exploration, we delve into the most frequently asked questions about Peridot, uncover some fascinating facts, and showcase how Latelita's jewellery collection celebrates this verdant gemstone's allure.

Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, cherished for its signature olive to lime green colour, which is due to the presence of iron ions. Unlike many gemstones, Peridot is idiochromatic, meaning its colour comes from the fundamental chemical composition of the mineral itself, not from impurities.                                                                                                            

Peridot is mined in various parts of the world, including the United States (Arizona), China, Vietnam, and Pakistan. Historically, this gemstone was famously mined on Zabargad Island in the Red Sea, known in antiquity as Topazios, which was one of the earliest sources of Peridot.                                    

This is one of the few gemstones that can form deep within the Earth's mantle, most commonly brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Additionally, Peridot can be found in pallasite meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones known to exist beyond Earth.                                                          

Peridot is believed to carry positive energy, promoting wellness and vitality. It's often associated with peace, good fortune, and happiness. In crystal healing practices, Peridot is thought to alleviate stress, inspire creativity, and encourage personal growth.                                                                                      

Peridot, ranking 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, requires careful handling to prevent scratches and damage. It's recommended to clean Peridot jewellery with mild soap and lukewarm water, using a soft brush. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes to maintain the gemstone's vibrancy.                                                                                                                                    

Unlike some gemstones, Peridot's colour remains constant and does not change under different light sources. Its distinctive green hue is as constant as it is captivating, ranging from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green, depending on the iron content.                                                                            

While Peridot is readily available, high-quality Peridot, especially in larger sizes, can be rare. The finest Peridots exhibit a deep, rich green colour without brown or yellow tinges. Gem-quality Peridot from Myanmar, Pakistan, and certain meteorites are considered particularly rare and valuable.                        

One of Peridot's most intriguing characteristics is its extraterrestrial origins. Peridot crystals have been discovered in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones known to come from space. This celestial connection adds a layer of mystique to Peridot's earthly charm.                                                   

Peridot's vibrant colour and clarity make it an ideal choice for all types of jewellery, from earrings and necklaces to rings and bracelets. It pairs beautifully with both silver and gold settings, offering versatility in design and style.                                                                                                                       

Peridot has been found in meteorites that have travelled through space, some dating back over 4.5 billion years.                                                                                                                                                

In the days of pirates and treasure islands, Peridot was often mistaken for Emerald. Some famous "emerald" treasures of pirates were later discovered to be Peridot.                                                           

Cleopatra was known to have a passion for Peridot and even owned a magnificent collection, which she believed were Emeralds.                                                                                                                        

These exquisite earrings feature meticulously faceted Peridot stones, encapsulated in a classic teardrop design. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit, they reflect the serene beauty of August's birthstone.                                                                                                                                                     

Crafted for versatility and style, the Peridot Stacking Ring from Latelita is a testament to minimalist elegance. The vibrant Peridot centrepiece is flanked by delicate zirconia, offering a subtle sparkle that complements the gemstone's natural lustre.                                                                                              

This charming bracelet, adorned with a dainty Peridot charm, is an ode to the gemstone's purported healing properties. Its delicate design makes it a perfect everyday accessory, bringing a whisper of colour and positivity to the wearer's ensemble.                                                                                         

In conclusion, Peridot, with its unique green hue and fascinating history, remains a favoured gemstone for those born in August and beyond. Its ties to the cosmos, ancient lore, and healing properties make it a gemstone of intrigue and beauty. Latelita's Peridot-infused jewellery pieces offer a modern homage to this ancient stone, allowing wearers to carry a piece of celestial wonder with them, wrapped in elegance and style.