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Jewelers of America

About MJ Harrington & Co.

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August - Peridot

Peridot is reported to ward off evil, eliminate enchantments, as well as prevent nightmares. This is due to its association with the sun and power of its life-giving rays, hence the term "gem of the sun". Peridot was treasured by the Egyptians and was called "divine tears wept by Pele, Goddess of the Volcano", in Hawaiian legends. Peridot comes from the Arabic word "zeberget" for peridot and also an island in the Red Sea, an early source for the gem.

Varieties, Qualities & Origins
The most valuable peridot is medium in tone, the most vivid possible and slightly yellowish-green in blue. Peridot is widely available in a variety of shapes from faceted to cabochon (curved dome) and many sizes. The majority of the peridots today is mined in Arizona. It is also found in Myanmar (Burma), China and other localities.

Gemstone Enhancements
Peridot is not subjected to any known enhancements.