Peridot is the gem variety of olivine ((Mg,Fe)2SiO4), prized for its fresh green that ranges from light yellow-green to deeper olive. It is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color family, colored by iron rather than the chromium or vanadium behind most other green gems. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7 it suits most jewelry with a little care.
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Peridot is the birthstone for August. It has been treasured since ancient times, and one of the oldest known sources is the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea off Egypt, mined for more than 3,500 years. Peridot forms deep in the Earth's mantle and reaches the surface in volcanic rock, and it has even been found in meteorites. Today important sources include Pakistan, Arizona in the United States, China and Myanmar. Peridot is rarely treated.
The gems of about 200 carats on the Shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne Cathedral were long thought to be emeralds. They are peridots.
The rare green sand of Papakōlea Beach in Hawaii gets its color from olivine, the same mineral as peridot.
Peridot has strong double refraction, so looking through the top of a faceted stone you can often see the back facet edges doubled. Many stones contain small disc-shaped inclusions surrounded by a halo of tiny cracks, known as lily pads, which are typical of peridot. Its oily, slightly yellowish green is distinctive and separates it from emerald and green tourmaline.
Peridot is sensitive to acids and to sudden temperature changes, and it can scratch more easily than harder gems. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush, never with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and choose protective settings for rings.
Every stone is natural, and each listing gives its weight, size, origin and treatment, with photos of the actual stone.
