Peridot comes from an old French term of unknown origin. It is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, usually green and yellow-green. Generally the greener type tends to be called peridot and the yellower type, chrysolite.
Although known in biblical times, the source of peridot was the subject of great speculation until the 19th century. One theory was that the gems were from meteorites containing olivine found in Mediterranean countries.
It was only early this century that the ancient source was discovered to be the island of Zebirget known in English as St. John Island on the Egyptian shore of the Red Sea. Peridot is said to have been one of the stones used in the breastplate of the ancient high priest. It is also though to reduce stress.
Peridot is one of the birthstones for August (with sardonyx) symbolising married happiness.
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