Peridot, one of the most recognizable gemstones in existence, has so much more history and beauty than many know. Let’s find out everything there is to know about this August birthstone.
Source: GIA
History + Properties
"What is the history of Peridot?"
Peridot comes from the Arabic word “Faridat” which means “gem” or “unique”. The yellow-green variety of the mineral olivine, Peridot is one of the few gemstones to only occur in a singular color. In many ancient civilizations, the stone was prized for its beauty and was adorned on many cathedrals and royal jewelry, often mistaken for other stones like emeralds and topaz. In fact, Cleopatra’s famous emerald jewelry suite is now known to be Peridots mined in a notable deposit in Egypt. Speaking of Ancient, Peridot is one of the oldest gemstones in human history with written recordings of mining dating back to 1500 B.C.E. For centuries, peridot was believed to protect the wearer against evil spirits and was worn to “sharpen the mind”.
Papakolea Green Sand Beach, Hawaii. Source: Big Island Guide
Origin
"Where Does Peridot Come From?"
Most Peridot used in jewelry today comes from mines in China, Tanzania, Myanmar, Vietnam and even the United States in states like Arizona, Nevada and Arkansas. While some peridot has been found in meteorites (those being formed over 4 BILLION years ago), most Peridot is found in areas close to volcanic activity where the stones are formed and brought up to the surface. In Papakolea beach in Hawaii, Peridot crystals can be found in the sand resulting in a green hue beach!
Source: GIA
Certification and Treatment
"Does Peridot Need Treatment or a Certificate?"
Peridot is a fairly common colorstone in the market and as a semi-precious stone that is often not in need of any treatments to improve color or clarity, certifications for them aren’t usual or necessary. However, Peridot above 5ct with true green hue are considered especially rare, so stones can be seen certified at that level. With the wide availability of peridot, treatments to improve stones aren’t necessary or expected. Though some imitation Peridot exists in the market, it can sometimes be more expensive to produce than finding the natural stone!
Lily Pad Inclusions
Ludwigite Inclusions
Clarity and Inclusions
"How Clean is Peridot? Does Peridot Have Inclusions?"
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that some prize for their inclusions, which can create beautiful shapes and patterns. The most famous inclusions for Peridot are the “lily pad” inclusion, stress fractures within the stone that create a shape similar to a lily pad, as well as ludwigite, a mineral that can leave black spike looking remnants in a stone creating fun textures. Not all color stones need to be perfectly clean and transparent, it can be fun to have a stone with character!
Source: LUO Jewelry
Shades of Peridot
"What Colors do Peridot Come in?"
As mentioned above, Peridot is one of the few gemstones that only comes in one color, however within this color are many shades you can find Peridot in. Though it is most commonly found in the yellow-green variety, the iconic “Granny Smith Apple” vivid green shade is the most esteemed.
1.61ct Round Peridot
Caring for Peridot
"How Do You Take Care of Peridot?"
On the Mohs Hardness scale, which measures a gemstones scratch resistance, Peridot sits at a 6.5-7.0, a similar scratch resistance to stones like Amethyst and Citrine but lower on the scale than sapphires, aquamarine and topaz. It’s important to take care of “softer” stones like these for the most longevity, especially if worn often. Keep peridot away from acidic chemicals and make sure the stone is cleaned fairly often, especially if it has been sweat on. It is not recommended to use steam or an ultrasonic cleaner for Peridot, the better option is a soft bristle toothbrush and warm water with dish soap.
Shahla Karimi Birthstone Baguette Studs in Peridot
Shahla Karimi Peridot Collection
Check out our collection of pieces featuring Peridot for a great way to incorporate you or a loved ones birthstones, or for a fun pop of green to your daily stack! Peridot is also the stone for 16th anniversaries. From our baguette and demi bands to something completely custom created for you, we’re here to help create something memorable and show-stopping!
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