Crystal of the month: PERIDOT
PERIDOT
Chemical Makeup: (Mg,Fe)2SiO4
Crystalline structure: Orthorhombic
Colors: Green, Yellow-green
Hardness: 6.5 to 7
Localities: Arkansas, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Kenya, Mexico, Burma, Norway, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania
Birthstone: August
Astrology: Associated with the planet Mercury
Associated Chakra(s): Solar Plexus & Heart Chakras
Metaphysical properties: Friendliness, Open heart
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This stone has a very friendly energy.
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Cleanses and purifies any disturbances in the emotional energy field, bringing openness and acceptance of the current circumstances and a clear understanding of how to move into balance.
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Provides a powerful shield of protection around the body and will protect the alignment that has been accomplished with other crystals.
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Due to its vigorous work as a protector, it will need to be cleansed regularly.
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Assists in supporting honesty, appreciation and joy in love and relationships.
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Helps heal the effects of a bruised ego, lessening anger and jealousy and inspiring joy and compassion.
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Regulates and balances all life cycles and acts as a tonic to regenerate and strengthen the body.
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Treats disorders of the heart, lungs, spleen and intestines.
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Strengthens eyesight in conditions of astigmatism and nearsightedness.
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Eases the conditions of stomach ulcers and facilitates the birthing process, stimulating contractions and opening the birth canal.
History: Peridot is one of the oldest known gemstones. Records date the mining of peridot back to 1500 B.C.
Much archaeological evidence suggests that the famous emeralds Cleopatra adorned herself with were actually peridot.
Peridot is also the only gemstone besides diamond that is formed in the earth’s mantle as opposed to the crust, where all other gemstones are found. It is brought to the surface through volcanic activity.
Interesting facts: Peridot crystals are also found in extremely rare pallasite meteorites--only 61 of these meteorites have been found on earth to date.