Gemstones - Ruby and Peridot

July - Ruby

The history of Ruby mining dates back more than 2,500 years ago. The gemstone Ruby is the red variety of the mineral Corundum; the second hardest natural mineral known to mankind [after Diamond], with a Moh’s hardness at 8.5.

The word Ruby comes from the Latin "ruber," meaning red. It is a variety of the mineral Corundum, and is found as crystals within metamorphic rock. Corundum comes in a variety of colors, and is considered a ‘Sapphire’ in any color except red, which is designated as a ‘Ruby’.

Like a perfect red rose, the Ruby's rich color speaks of love and passion. It has been said that the Ruby's red glow comes from an ‘internal flame’ that cannot be extinguished, making a gift of this stone symbolic of everlasting love.

Called the "Rajnapura" or King of Gems by ancient Hindus, July's birthstone is among the most highly prized of gems throughout history.

In healing, rubies are the gem of choice to cure diseases of the blood and the heart. A Ruby worn on the left hand is said to bring good fortune to its wearer.

August - Peridot

the August birthstone poem reflects some of the properties with which the Peridot is associated - love, truth, strength, faithfulness and loyalty.

There are many assumptions about the origin of the name Peridot. It is widely believed that name Peridot comes from Arabic word 'faridat', meaning gem. Some people also believe that Peridot is derived from the French word 'Peridot', meaning unclear - The colour of the gem is supposed to be unclear. The third assumption is that the word Peridot originated from a Greek word 'peridona', which means richness.

Peridot is a gem stone that is formed as a result of volcanic activity and it is a type of mineral Chrysolite or Olivine and its chemical formula is given by: (Mg,Fe)2SiO4.

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color: basically an olive green. The intensity and tint of the green however depends on how much iron is contained in the crystal structure, so the color of individual Peridot gems can vary from yellow-green through olive green to brownish green. The most valuable is considered a dark-olive green color.

Ancient Egyptians called them the “gem of the sun,” because of their dazzling brilliance when seen in the desert sun. It was believed that the Peridot glowed even as darkness fell, which is why miners were said to have scouted for these gems during the night, marking their location and then returning in the light of day to retrieve them. Perhaps this legendary mining method is the reason that the Peridot is sometimes called “evening emerald.”

The green crystal was considered protective against evil and when set in gold, especially helpful against night terrors. Throughout history, the August birthstone; Peridot, has been used as a means to ‘connect with nature’. This beautiful gemstone, when offered as a gift, symbolizes energy and vitality. It signifies strength - both individual and within a relationship, as well as the promise of growth in the years ahead.

Mike cena is a jewelry designer at ibraggiotti and specialist in Diamond Cut Cross Earrings and Diamond religious earrings

visit our online Fine jewelry stores new york for special price and offers.

Mike Cena is a jewelry designer at ibraggiotti and specialist in Diamond Cut Cross Earrings and Diamond religious earrings visit our online Fine jewelry stores new york for special price and offers.