Peridot: The Extreme Gem

Posted on Aug 1, 2013 in Birthstones, Gemstones,

August’s fascinating birthstone may be called the “extreme gem” because it is formed in the most extreme conditions, found in lava, meteorites and deep within Earth’s mantle. Peridot has been found in pallasite meteorites, which contain remnants of our solar system’s birth. In 2006, peridot was found in comet dust brought back from the Stardust robotic space probe.

“The Green Goddess”, 154 carat peridot set in gold with yellow diamonds accents. Image courtesy of The Field Museum.

However, as exciting as extraterrestrial peridot is, it is more commonly found here on Earth, particularly in volcanic rocks known as basalts. The gemstone can commonly be found in lava flows in the United States, China and Vietnam. Sometimes peridot can be found as large crystals lining veins or pockets in certain types of solidified molten rock in Finland, Pakistan and Myanmar.

Peridot from Ethiopia. Image (c) ICA.

Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other gems such as topaz and emerald. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral is decorated with 200 carats of gems. They were believed to be emeralds, but they are , in fact, peridots. Some historians even speculate Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been comprised of peridot.

6.33carat peridot pendant set in 18k white gold.

Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral forsterite , which contains iron and magnesium. It is part of the mineral group olivine and ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow. Peridot’s finest color is a richly saturated green to slightly yellowish-green that’s free of brownish tints.Smaller, lighter shades are widely available and more affordable. A well cut peridot can be a beautiful and brilliant gem.

Peridot with rich, deep yellow green color.

Peridot is softer than many gems with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Peridot should be stored with care to avoid scratching. It can be cleaned with mild dish soap in warm water using a toothbrush to scrub behind the stone where dust can collect. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are not advised, as either of these methods risks damaging the stone.

Are you an August baby or do you just love peridot? Please share what makes peridot special to you!