Which gemstone is associated with your birth month? What powers does it have? How can you best harness its energy? Tatler’s expert Joyce Tsang helps demystify birthstones and their properties
Peridots might be considered by many as the affordable cousin of emeralds, this green stone is spectacular in its own right. Originating from lava, meteorites and olivine mineral found in earth’s upper mantle, peridots are known for their olive green colour, with the hue’s intensity being determined by the amount of iron present in the crystal.
Peridots have been known to humans for thousands of centuries. Ancient Egyptians were among the first to mine the stone, and they believed it to be the “gem of the sun”, with powers to ward off evil. Some historians even believe that several stones in Egyptian queen Cleopatra’s collection of emeralds might have been peridots.
In ancient Rome, this gemstone was known as the “evening emerald”, due to its ability to reflect light even under low lighting. In medieval Europe too, peridots were used to adorn ecclesiastical treasures.
In Asia, diverse cultures have appreciated peridots throughout history, often integrating them into spiritual or healing practices. For instance, in China, peridots—along with other green gems—were associated with growth and harmony, while other cultures such as Thailand or Malaysia held the stone in high regard for its protective and healing powers.
To this day, those who believe in the mystical properties of gemstones recognise and deeply value peridot’s powers. We spoke to Tatler’s expert Joyce Tsang, founder of crystal healing service Stone & Star, to find out more about this green beauty.
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Energy influence
This green gemstone has often been associated with good luck, prosperity and positivity. It’s is often used as a protective stone as it’s believed to guard against negativity. Resonating with both the solar plexus and the heart chakra, it is thought to integrate will power and love, urging the wearer to follow their heart’s desires.
In terms of emotional healing, Tsang says peridots are believed to help heal the ego from feelings of jealousy or anger. The gem encourages the wearer to cultivate gratitude for the self and to recognise the happiness that exists in their lives.
Because of its green colour, the stone is also said to reinforce the bond between the wearer and the environment, promoting a greater appreciation of nature.