What is Peridot?
Peridot is a gem quality variety of the mineral olivine, which is composed of magnesium iron silicate. Its signature lime-green to olive green color comes from the presence of iron within its chemical structure. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot is idiochromatic, meaning its color is inherent to the mineral itself and not caused by impurities.
This gemstone has been cherished since ancient times, often associated with light, positivity, and renewal. Its name is believed to have originated from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "gem."
Uses of Peridot
Peridot is a versatile gemstone with a wide range of uses:
Jewelry: Peridot is a popular choice for rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Its vibrant green color complements both gold and silver settings, making it a favorite among jewelry designers.
Decorative Items: Larger peridot stones are sometimes used in ornamental carvings or as accent pieces in home decor.
Astrology: Peridot is the birthstone for August and is often gifted to celebrate August birthdays or 16th wedding anniversaries.
Origin of Peridot
Peridot has a fascinating geological history. It forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Some of the most notable sources of peridot include:
Pakistan: Known for producing high-quality peridot with exceptional clarity and color.
Arizona, USA: The San Carlos Apache Reservation is one of the largest sources of peridot in the world.
Myanmar (Burma): Historically significant, with peridot deposits dating back to ancient times.
Egypt: The island of Zabargad in the Red Sea was once the most famous source of peridot, supplying gems to ancient Egyptian royalty.
Peridot has also been found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones to exist beyond Earth!
Prices of Peridot
Peridot is relatively affordable compared to other gemstones, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. Prices vary depending on factors like size, color, clarity, and origin:
Small Stones (1-3 carats): $30 to $100 per carat.
Larger Stones (5+ carats): $100 to $300 per carat
Top-Quality Stones: Can reach up to $900 per carat for exceptional color and clarity.
While peridot is not as expensive as emeralds or diamonds, its unique beauty and rarity in larger sizes make it a valuable addition to any collection.
Properties of Peridot
Peridot is not just visually stunning—it also boasts unique physical and metaphysical properties:
Color: Ranges from yellowish-green to olive green, with the most prized stones having a pure, vibrant green hue.
Hardness: Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear but still requiring care to avoid scratches.
Clarity: Most peridot stones are eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions. However, some may contain tiny black spots known as "lily pads."
Metaphysical Properties: Peridot is said to bring good luck, peace, and success. It’s also believed to ward off negative energy and enhance self-confidence.
Treatments of Peridot
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that is typically not treated or enhanced. Its natural color and clarity are highly valued, and most peridot stones on the market are completely untreated. However, it’s essential to handle peridot with care, as it can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals.
When cleaning peridot jewelry, use mild soap and warm water, and avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
