Peridot (pronounced pair-uh- doe) is one of the
few gemstones naturally occurring in only one
color. Its color is olive green. This yellowish-
green is found in light to dark shades that may
remind one of the beautiful foliage of Spring,
Summer, and Autumn.
It’s also one of only two gems (Diamond is the
other) not formed in the Earth’s crust. It’s found in
molten rock of the upper mantle and brought to
the surface by earthquakes and volcanoes. They
have also been found in pallasite meteorites and various celestial materials.
What Is Peridot?
It’s a type of olivine, which is a mineral of magnesium iron silicate and quite
common around the world. However, gem quality Peridot is quite rare, and is,
therefore, considered to be ‘precious.’
Shades of Color
Although it’s a one-color gem, the olive-green
coloring can vary in intensity and tint. It depends
on the amount of iron in the crystal structure.
Color ranges from yellow-green, pure green, to
olive, to brownish-green, according to Wikipedia.
The lighter shades are exquisitely pretty, however
the dark olive green is valued highest by the gem
industry. It is not enhanced in any way to change the coloring.
Confusing Green Gems
Buy from a knowledgeable source. Peridot
is sometimes confused with Emerald and
other green gems.
Early records indicate that the ancient
Egyptians mined a beautiful green gem on
an island in the Red Sea. From the earliest
times, people confused this stone—now
known to be peridot—with other gems. It
was one of many labeled as “topaz,” according to the Gemological Institute of
America (GIA).
GIA also states: Some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald
collection might actually have been peridot. For centuries, people believed the
200 carat gems adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s
Cologne Cathedral were emeralds. They are, in fact, peridots.
A Little Trivia…
As its coloring may suggest, many people associate the gem with warmth and
well-being — mentally stimulating and physically regenerating. It’s thought by
some to sharpen the mind to new levels of awareness and growth, helping one to
recognize one’s destiny. Peridot is also believed by some to aid in
transformation, such as in recovery from tobacco and other additions. It’s
associated with the heart chakra and has been said to promote love and
compassion.
Additionally, peridot is the traditional birthstone for August. A gift of this gemstone
is particularly appropriate for the 16th-year marriage anniversary.
DIY or Have It Custom Made
You can make your own jewelry with peridot
gems. Many sizes, shapes and color
variances are available online at Ny6Designs
Beads and Jewelry Supply and at the store at
1023 S. Greenville Ave., Allen, TX.
Don’t know how to make jewelry? No worries.
You may want to take a class or inquire about
our custom-made jewelry service. Call us at
214-509- 6700.
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