Peridot
The extraterrestrial gem — found in meteorites and volcanic basalt.
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of olivine, an iron-magnesium silicate mineral. It is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color — green — though the shade ranges from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green. Peridot is idiochromatic, meaning its color comes from its essential chemistry (iron), not from trace impurities. It is also one of only two gemstones formed in the earth's mantle (the other being diamond), brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Gem-quality peridot has even been found in pallasite meteorites, making it one of the few extraterrestrial gemstones.
Physical Properties
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.654–1.690 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.27–3.37 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Chemical Formula | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ |
Color Varieties
Major Sources
Pakistan (Kashmir) · Myanmar · China · Arizona (USA) · Egypt (Zabargad Island, historical) · Vietnam
Pricing Factors
Color
Pure, vivid lime green without excessive yellow or brown commands the highest prices. Pakistani peridot sets the color standard for the trade.
Size
Fine peridot above 5 carats is uncommon. Stones above 10 carats with vivid color are genuinely rare.
Clarity
Eye-clean is expected. Peridot commonly contains tiny dark chromite inclusions ('lily pads') which lower value if visible.
Origin
Pakistani (Kashmir) peridot is the most valued for its intense color. Arizona peridot is abundant but usually smaller and more yellowish.
Care Instructions
Do
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth
- Store in a soft pouch away from harder stones
- Best suited for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings
Don't
- Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners
- Avoid acids — even mild vinegar can damage the surface
- Don't expose to rapid temperature changes
Cleaning Method
Warm soapy water only. Peridot is sensitive to acids and thermal shock. Handle with care.
Insider Buying Tips
Pakistani peridot offers the best color quality — it's worth the modest premium over Arizona material.
Peridot is never treated — you're always getting a natural, untreated gemstone.
Best suited for earrings and pendants rather than daily-wear rings due to its moderate hardness.
Evening and incandescent lighting brings out peridot's most vivid green — view stones in multiple lighting conditions.
As August's birthstone, peridot makes an excellent and affordable personalized gift.
Did You Know?
Peridot crystals have been found in pallasite meteorites that are 4.5 billion years old.
The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on Zabargad Island in the Red Sea — they called it the 'gem of the sun.'
Some scholars believe Cleopatra's famous emerald collection was actually peridot.