Peridot
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that exists in only one colour — green. Its distinctive lime to olive green, caused by iron in its crystal structure, has been treasured since ancient Egypt, where it was known as "the gem of the sun."
Quick Facts
Colour
Yellow-green to olive green to brownish-green.
Hardness
6.
Origins
The San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona (USA) is a major source.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with a distinctive warm glow.
What is Peridot?
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, an iron-magnesium silicate. It is one of a handful of gemstones that come in only one basic colour, though the shade can vary from yellow-green to olive to brownish-green depending on the iron content. Peridot forms deep in the earth's mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Remarkably, peridot has also been found in meteorites (pallasites) and in samples from Mars, making it one of the few gemstones known to occur beyond earth.
Properties
Colour
Yellow-green to olive green to brownish-green. The most valued shade is a vivid, saturated lime green without brownish overtones. The colour is inherent to the mineral — it is always some shade of green.
Hardness
6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Reasonably durable for jewellery but benefits from protective settings for rings worn daily.
Origins
The San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona (USA) is a major source. Pakistan's Kashmir region produces exceptionally fine peridot. Other sources include Myanmar, China, Vietnam, and the historic island of Zabargad (St. John's Island) in the Red Sea.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with a distinctive warm glow. Peridot displays strong double refraction, meaning a visible doubling effect can be seen when looking through the stone at facet edges.
Varieties
Peridot's colour range is limited to greens, but the variation within that range is notable. The finest specimens from Pakistan's Kashmir region display a vivid, pure green that is the most valued. Arizona peridot is typically slightly yellow-green and available in large quantities. Changbai peridot from China has gained market share in smaller sizes. Meteoritic peridot (from pallasite meteorites) is extraordinarily rare and a prized collector's item — these are extraterrestrial gems that formed in space.
History
Ancient Egyptians called peridot "the gem of the sun" and mined it on the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea as early as 1500 BC. The island was so valued that it was closely guarded and its location was kept secret. Many historians believe that Cleopatra's legendary "emerald" collection included many peridots, as the two stones were frequently confused in antiquity. In medieval times, crusaders brought peridot to Europe, where it was used to decorate churches and religious objects.
Meaning & Symbolism
Peridot symbolises strength, healing, good fortune, and warmth. Associated with the sun and light, peridot is believed to dispel darkness, fear, and negativity. In Hawaiian mythology, peridot represents the tears of the goddess Pele. It is thought to promote prosperity, growth, and positive transformation. As a healing stone, peridot is associated with the heart chakra and emotional well-being.
How to Care for Peridot
Clean peridot with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as peridot can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Protect from hard knocks and scratches. Remove peridot rings during physical activities. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and acids. Store separately from harder gemstones.
Peridot Jewellery Ideas
Peridot's vibrant green adds a fresh, cheerful element to any collection. It pairs especially well with yellow gold for a warm, nature-inspired look. Peridot pendant necklaces and drop earrings make excellent everyday accessories. For rings, choose a bezel or halo setting that provides extra protection. Peridot clusters create beautiful, organic designs. A peridot and diamond combination in white gold offers a crisp, modern contrast.