The Sagittarius Birthstone from the Bible: Peridot

Astrology and the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Astrology is the belief system that explains a connection between celestial phenomena and events on earth. This tradition tackles in particular the positions of celestial bodies, such as stars and planets, and their influence on human affairs. Central to astrology is the zodiac, which consists of twelve signs, each associated with specific personality traits.

Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac. Represented by the archer, Sagittarians exhibit an adventurous spirit, optimism and love for freedom and exploration. Known for their honesty, Sagittarians are philosophical, open-minded individuals with a thirst for knowledge and new experiences.

With every sign in the zodiac comes a gem. Though birthstones are popularly associated with each month of the year, the oldest of month stones also accompanied the zodiac signs. For Sagittarius, the birthstone is peridot.

Origin of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot in the Bible

The recognition of peridot as the birthstone for Sagittarius has its roots in an interpretation of the Bible. Peridot was known in biblical times under a different name, ‘topaz,’ topazion in Greek. Indeed, the ancient topaz referred to what we now identify as peridot rather than the modern-day topaz.

A bright green gemstone, peridot historically came from an island in the Red Sea. Now known as St. John’s Island, this island went in ancient times by the name Topazum, hence peridot’s old name ‘topaz.’ The same gem appears in the Book of Exodus as one of the precious stones adorning the breastplate of the Israelite high priest, though the stone was later confused with the modern topaz.

Under the name topazion, peridot later came up in Revelation 21:20 as one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. As the ninth foundation stone, peridot corresponds to the ninth sign of the zodiac, which is Sagittarius. Later interpretation accordingly made peridot the birthstone of the Sagittarius zodiac sign.

Physical Characteristics of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Peridot’s vivid green color and transparency make this gem a highly desirable gemstone for jewelry and decorative purposes. Other physical properties define peridot too.

1. Color

Peridot is primarily known for its vibrant green color. However, this color comes in various shades, the intensity of which depends on the iron content of the stone. These variations in hues add to the appeal and diversity of peridot, allowing for a range of options to suit different preferences.

1. Olive Green

Characterized by a warm, yellowish-green hue resembling the color of ripe olives, olive green is the color typically associated with peridot.

2. Yellow-Green

It is rather common for peridot to exhibit a more yellowish green, leaning towards a brighter or lighter shade with less saturation.

3. Lime Green

On the lighter end of the spectrum, peridot can display a bright and vivid lime green color, often with a neon-like intensity.

4. Brownish Green

Inferior stones of peridot contain brownish undertones, resulting in a slightly darker or earthier green coloration.

5. Yellow Peridot

Rarely, peridot contains a more pronounced yellow, making it a yellow gemstone with a green tint.

2. Transparency

Peridot is typically transparent to translucent, allowing light to pass through and give it a lively appearance.

3. Hardness

On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, peridot ranks between 6.5 and 7, making it relatively durable for everyday wear but still requiring care to prevent scratches or damage.

4. Crystal Structure

Belonging to the olivine mineral group, peridot has an orthorhombic crystal structure. This stone forms in a variety of environments, including volcanic rocks, such as basalt and peridotite.

5. Luster

Peridot has a vitreous or glassy luster, which adds to its brilliance when polished.

6. Clarity

Natural peridot often contains inclusions, such as tiny crystals or disk-shaped inclusions known as “lily pads.” These inclusions can affect the stone’s clarity, but are generally acceptable in peridot unless they significantly impact its beauty or durability.

Historical Use of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Peridot has a rich history of use in various cultures around the world, dating back thousands of years.

Throughout this time, peridot has held significant cultural and symbolic meanings. Its enduring popularity and widespread use attest to its timeless appeal and significance.

1. Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egyptians highly regarded the peridot, known as the ‘gem of the sun.’ As early as 1500 BCE, Egyptians sourced peridot from the Red Sea island of Zabargad, also known as St. John’s Island. Believed to ward off evil spirits, peridot often figured in jewelry, including amulets and talismans.

2. Ancient Rome

Romans prized peridot for its healing properties, and believed the stone could alleviate depression and anxiety. They also wore peridot jewelry for protection against enchantments.

3. Ancient Greece

The name ‘peridot’ may possibly have come from the Greek word peridona, which means “giving plenty.” The Greeks may have associated the stone with wealth, and believed it could bring prosperity and good fortune.

4. Middle Ages

Peridot continued to be popular during the Middle Ages, especially in Europe. The stone often appeared in religious artifacts and jewelry, including bishop’s rings, and was associated with divine protection.

5. Islamic Culture

Peridot was highly esteemed in Islamic culture, whose word for “gem,” faridat, has widely been accepted to have produced the name of the stone. Believed to bring blessings, peridot often figured in jewelry, particularly rings.

6. Native American Culture

Native Americans discovered peridot in the San Carlos Apache Reservation of Arizona, and used the stone in sacred rituals and ceremonies.

7. Modern Times

Today, peridot continues to be in demand for its beauty and symbolism. The stone remains popular for jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Peridot is also used in crystal healing practices for its purported ability to promote prosperity, happiness and emotional well-being.

Metaphysical Properties of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Peridot is revered for its holistic healing properties. Often used in crystal healing and meditation, peridot is associated with several symbolisms and metaphysical properties.

1. Protection

Peridot is often considered a protective stone, shielding the wearer from negative energies, including jealousy, anger and fear. By creating a protective shield, the stone blocks psychic attacks and unwanted influences.

2. Healing

Peridot is associated with physical healing, and is believed to have detoxifying properties. The stone cleanses and rejuvenates the body, thus promoting overall well-being and vitality. Peridot also supports the immune system and aids in digestion.

3. Emotional Balance

Peridot balances emotions and calms stress, anxiety and other negative emotions. The stone instills a sense of peace and tranquility, promoting mental clarity and emotional stability. Peridot also encourages forgiveness, and releases negative patterns.

4. Prosperity and Abundance

Peridot is associated with prosperity, abundance and wealth. The stone attracts success and good fortune, thus promoting prosperity in all areas of life, including finances, career and relationships.

5. Spiritual Growth

Peridot is considered a stone of transformation and spiritual growth. The gem stimulates spiritual insights, enhances intuition, and deepens meditation. Peridot also connects the wearer with higher realms of consciousness.

6. Manifestation

Peridot amplifies the power of manifestation, helping the wearer set and achieve goals, dreams and intentions. By enhancing creativity, inspiration and motivation, the stone empowers the wearer to manifest their desires into reality.

Astrological Significance of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Peridot’s metaphysical properties can complement and enhance the innate qualities of Sagittarius, thus supporting their journey of growth, exploration and self-discovery.

1. Protection

Sagittarians are known for their adventurous and optimistic nature, often fearlessly venturing into new experiences. Peridot’s protective properties can help shield Sagittarians from the negative energies or setbacks they may encounter on their journeys, thus allowing them to navigate through life with confidence and resilience.

2. Healing

Sagittarians are known for their boundless energy and enthusiasm, but they may also experience periods of stress or burnout due to their busy lifestyles. Peridot’s healing properties can help restore balance and vitality to Sagittarians, thus promoting physical well-being and supporting their active lifestyles.

3. Emotional Balance

Sagittarians are known for their upbeat and optimistic outlook on life, but they may also struggle with maintaining emotional balance during challenging times. Peridot’s calming influence can help Sagittarians manage stress, anxiety and other negative emotions, thus allowing these individuals to maintain their cheerful demeanor and positive attitude.

4. Prosperity and Abundance

Sagittarians often gravitate toward opportunities for growth and expansion, whether in their careers, finances or personal development. Peridot’s association with prosperity and abundance can align with Sagittarians’ ambitions. The stone attracts success and good fortune as these freedom-loving individuals pursue their goals and aspirations.

5. Spiritual Growth

Sagittarians are known for their philosophical and spiritual nature, constantly seeking higher knowledge and understanding. Peridot’s connection to spiritual growth and intuition can support Sagittarians on their quest for enlightenment. Peridot deepens their spiritual insights, and expands their consciousness.

6. Manifestation

Sagittarians are natural visionaries and dreamers, often setting ambitious goals and aspirations for themselves. Peridot’s ability to amplify manifestation can empower Sagittarians to turn their dreams into reality. The stone can help them stay focused, motivated and inspired as they pursue their passions and ambitions.

Suitable Varieties of Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

While each of peridot’s colors offers energies that can resonate with different aspects of Sagittarius personalities, certain shades may resonate more closely with these individuals.

1. Vibrant Lime Green

Sagittarians are known for their bold and adventurous spirit, and the bright, vivid lime green variety of peridot can reflect their dynamic energy and enthusiasm for life. This stone’s vibrant hue symbolizes optimism, vitality and a zest for exploration, aligning with Sagittarians’ adventurous nature and their quest for new experiences.

2. Yellow

Greenish yellow peridot symbolizes abundance, prosperity and success. Sagittarians, who often gravitate toward opportunities for growth and expansion, may resonate with the abundance-attracting qualities of yellow peridot.

3. Yellow Green

Peridot with a yellow-green color can evoke feelings of warmth, joy and creativity. This hue is associated with optimism and a sunny disposition, reflecting the cheerful and upbeat nature of Sagittarians. Yellow-green peridot can thus inspire Sagittarians to maintain their positive outlook and embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm.

4. Olive Green

The classic olive-green color of peridot represents growth, renewal and vitality, qualities that resonate strongly with Sagittarius personalities. This earthy hue symbolizes connection to nature and the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, reflecting Sagittarians’ philosophical nature and their thirst for exploration and self-discovery.

Care and Maintenance of Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

Caring for peridot jewelry is relatively straightforward. By following these tips, you can ensure that your peridot remains beautiful and radiant for years to come.

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

While peridot is relatively durable, it’s still important to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia and other strong cleaning agents. These chemicals can damage the surface of the stone and diminish its luster over time.

2. Storage

To prevent scratching, store peridot jewelry separately from other gemstones or metals. It’s best to wrap each piece in a soft cloth or store them in a jewelry box, as these minimize contact and friction.

3. Gentle Cleaning

Using a soft-bristled brush or cloth, clean peridot jewelry regularly with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, which could scratch the surface of the stone. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Peridot can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so it’s best to avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold. Remove peridot jewelry before activities such as sunbathing, hot tubs or swimming in hot springs, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also damage the stone. While peridot is a relatively stable gem, too much sunlight or heat can cause fading. Hence, it’s best to store peridot jewelry away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.

The Beauty of the Sagittarius Birthstone Peridot

The Sagittarius birthstone peridot is a vibrant green gem symbolizing prosperity, happiness and adventure. Known for its lively green color varying from olive to lime green, peridot embodies the optimistic and adventurous nature of Sagittarians. Its unique colors – associated with vitality, growth and spiritual enlightenment – make peridot a tangible representation of the adventurous spirit and boundless optimism of Sagittarius individuals.