Peridot
$85.00
Item number:
1
Peridot From Sapat Gali Mine KPK Province Pakistan
Peridot is a vibrant, yellow-green gemstone that is one of the few to occur in only one color. Born deep within the Earth's mantle, its unique hue comes from its iron-rich chemical composition rather than trace impurities. It is the traditional birthstone for August.
Key Characteristics
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- Color: Ranging from lime and bright yellowish-green to deep olive and brownish-green.
- Hardness: Rates at 6.5 - 7.0 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for most jewelry but softer than stones like sapphires or diamonds.
- Origin: Unlike most gems found in the Earth's crust, peridot is formed in the upper mantle and brought up by volcanic activity. Some incredibly rare extraterrestrial peridots have even been found on Earth inside pallasite meteorites.
History and Lore
Known historically as the "gem of the sun", peridot was mined as early as 70 A.D. on St. John's Island (Zabargad) in the Red Sea. Ancient Egyptians prized it highly, and some historians suspect Cleopatra's famous "emeralds" were actually peridot. In various folklore, the gemstone is associated with compassion, good luck, and protection against evil spirits.
Care and Value
Because of its lower hardness (compared to harder stones) and vulnerability to harsh chemicals, peridot jewelry is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush rather than steam or ultrasonic cleaners. You can explore a wide variety of cuts, such as the Brilliant Earth Solitaire Peridot Studs, or learn more about the gem's cosmic origins via the GIA Peridot Gem Guide.