Peridot is a gem quality form of the olivine mineral, which is quite abundant but the stone peridot is rare. Peridot was confused with emeralds for centuries as people believed that the 200 carat gems decorating the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were emeralds. Peridot is one of a few gemstones that come in one colour only.
Peridots are quite fascinating because some of it comes from the earth’s core while some of it has come to the earth via meteors. The former Egyptian island of Zagarabad (renamed to Topazios) is one of the oldest sources of this beautiful lime to olive green coloured gemstone. Mogok in Burma (renamed to Myanmar) is also a prime source of peridot in addition to providing many other beautiful gemstones. Arizona in the US is another prime source of this crystal due to volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago in the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation. Peridots today are also sourced from China, Pakistan, Tanzania and Vietnam.
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness implying that it is ok to be worn in everyday jewellery with some caution so as to avoid hard brushes against harder materials.
As this gemstone is sensitive to heat it is best to clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Store it with care and avoid brushing against gemstones of greater hardness.
Peridot ranges from pure green to yellow green shades. The finest stone will have no hint of yellow or brown and will be exceptionally bright.
A fine peridot will have no visible inclusions. Tiny black spots and disk-shaped inclusions are commonly seen under a microscope. If visible to the naked eye these inclusions can impact the price.
Cut is very important to showcase the brilliance of this sparkly gem. Most standard cuts are suitable.
Smaller size peridots are easily found and inexpensive. Large ones that are over 10 carats are better capable of showing the brilliant colour and as a result more valuable.
Peridot is the birthstone for the month of August. The bright lime green colour of this stone has a summery feel to it while the more olive-toned version has an autumnal appeal.The word peridot was born of the Arabic word faridat meaning gem. Peridot is believed to increase the energy levels and endurance of the wearer. The fun colour of this stone is expected to enhance power, increase happiness and infuse a bit of fun into your life. The gemstone also teaches one to develop a calm demeanor regardless of the circumstance.
