PERIDOT

Overview: Peridot is among the oldest known gemstones.Peridot is a green gemstone that's sometimes called the evening emerald. Peridot is a gem-quality transparent variety of olivine, a mineral composed of magnesium-iron silicates.The peridot was regarded since ancient times as the symbol of the sun.Some of the finest peridot stones are called "evening emeralds" because they appear greener under artificial light.

Usage: Peridot, as well as being recommended as a cure for insomnia, is said to aid the digestion and placate the nervous system. It acts like a tonic and heals the physical body and can be useful in reducing fever. Used in treating emotional states such as anger or jealousy.Peridot had the power to drive away evil spirits and the power was considered to be even more intense when the stone was set in gold. Peridot was also used to decorate medieval churches.

Legend: This gem has been mined on an island in the Red Sea since 1500 BC. The Ancients considered Peridot to be the gem of the sun. They believed that it would send evil spirits away, lessen one's thirst when placed underneath the tongue, and to drive out nighttime terrors when placed in gold. Historians believe that some of the "emeralds" worn by Cleopatra were really peridot. According to legend, wearing Peridot protected the wearer from evil spirits.

Occurrence: Mogok district of Burma, Norway, Brazil, China, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Australia, Mexico, and United States.