"Gem of the Sun" - Luminous Peridot
"Woman With a Necklace of Gems" by Pablo Picasso, created in 1901.
It appears that this vibrant woman is indeed adorned with a dazzling necklace! As art is subjective, one might infer that she is donning a magnificent peridot necklace. The painting skillfully conveys both the lavishness of the period and the profound essence of the subject, creating a captivating artwork that resonates with both the outward appearance and inner emotions of the character portrayed.
The History and Fun Facts of Peridot
Peridot has a long-standing connection with luminosity. Referred to as the "gem of the sun" by the Egyptians, it was thought to safeguard its wearer from nighttime fears, particularly when encased in gold. Some individuals even threaded peridot gems onto donkey hair and fastened them around their left arms as a deterrent against malevolent spirits.
The term "peridot" originates from the Arabic word "faridat," translating to "gem." The majority of peridot was created deep within the earth and brought to the surface through volcanic activity. While some peridot arrived on Earth through meteorites, this extraterrestrial variation is exceedingly rare and unlikely to be found in a typical jewelry store.
Historical records suggest that the ancient Egyptians mined a striking green gem on an island in the Red Sea known as Topazios, now recognized as St. John's Island or Zabargad. Legend has it that the island was overrun by snakes, which made the mining process unpleasant until a resourceful pharaoh drove them into the sea. Throughout history, individuals often misidentified this stone—now identified as peridot—as various other gems, including "topaz."
Some historians speculate that Cleopatra's renowned emerald collection may have actually consisted of peridot. During the medieval era, people frequently mistook peridot for emerald. For many years, it was believed that the magnificent 200-carat gems adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany's Cologne Cathedral were emeralds, when, in reality, they are peridots.
If you were born in the month of August, your birthstone is peridot. Peridot is believed to attract good health and prosperity, and gives the gift of wit and eloquence upon those who wear it.
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Fascinating, as always! The Leos roar with approval!