What is peridot?
Peridot is a gemstone variety of the mineral olivine. It forms during volcanic eruptions and its color ranges from yellowish green to dark lime-green. Brownish versions are found, but are not as desirable.
Where is peridot found?
- The Red Sea island of St. Johns was an important source of peridot in earlier times. It was rediscovered about a century ago and still produces small quantities of the gemstone.
- Peridot Mesa, on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, is an important source of peridot. It is mined by Native Americans.
- Although not mined commercially, peridot can also be found at several different locations in New Mexico.
- Burma exported a great deal of peridot until political upheavals stopped distribution.
- Mines in Pakistan and China yield large amounts of peridot.
Peridot Fact & Folklore
- Peridot is the birthstone for August.
- In Hawaii, peridot symbolizes the goddess Pele's tears. Some Hawaiian beaches are packed with tiny grains of peridot that are too small to cut.
- The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., houses the largest cut peridot, a 310 carat gem.
- Ground peridot, taken internally, was once used as a treatment for asthma.
- It was thought that peridot brought power and influence to its owner.
Periodot Buying Tips
- Vivid lime-green peridot with no olive tones is most popular.
- Choose peridot with evenly distributed color.
- Most American peridot is 3 carats or less.
- As with other gems, prices increase with carat weight. Small sizes of cut peridot and peridot beads are very affordable.
- Larger stones are probably from Pakistan or China. Of the two, Pakistani peridot is more in demand.
- Peridot is sometimes treated with oils, waxes, and resins to enhance its color.
Ready to shop for peridot jewelry? Try this selection of peridot bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings.
