Peridot is one of those rare gemstones that feels alive. Its vibrant yellow‑green glow has captivated civilizations for over 4,000 years, earning it names like “the gem of the sun” and “evening emerald.” Whether set in a modern minimalist ring or a regal antique pendant, peridot radiates warmth, optimism, and unmistakable character.
This blog explores everything you need to know about peridot its origins, properties, symbolism, value, and care supported by authoritative references from gemological sources.
🌿 What Exactly Is Peridot?
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula . Unlike many gemstones that come in multiple colors, peridot is always green ranging from bright lime to deep olive depending on its iron content.
Peridot’s signature glow comes from iron within its structure, not from impurities making it one of the few gemstones whose color is intrinsic to its composition.
🌋 A Gem Born of Fire From Earth and Beyond
Peridot is formed deep within the Earth’s upper mantle, carried to the surface by volcanic activity. It appears in:
• Basaltic lava flows
• Ultramafic rocks
• Peridotite xenoliths
But here’s the extraordinary part:
Peridot is one of only two gemstones (along with diamond) formed in the mantle rather than the crust.
Even more astonishing, peridot has been found in:
• Pallasite meteorites—ancient remnants of our solar system
• Comet dust collected by NASA’s Stardust mission
This makes peridot literally a gem from outer space.
🏺 A Gemstone with 4,000 Years of History
Peridot has been treasured since ancient times:
• Egyptians mined it on the island of Zabargad and called it “the gem of the sun”.
• Romans admired its glow, calling it the “evening emerald.”
• Medieval Europeans used it in church treasures and royal jewellery.
Some of the world’s largest museum-quality peridots—over 200 carats—come from ancient Egyptian mines.
💚 Symbolism, Meaning & Healing Associations
Across cultures, peridot has symbolized:
• Light, purity, and renewal
• Protection from nightmares
• Emotional balance and harmony
• Joy, confidence, and well-being
Modern metaphysical beliefs associate peridot with:
• Detoxification and cleansing
• Improved mood and emotional clarity
• Skin rejuvenation
• Boosted vitality and metabolism
These healing claims come from traditional folklore rather than scientific evidence.
🎨 Peridot Quality Factors
According to gemological standards, peridot quality is judged by four key factors:
1. Color
The most desirable peridot is a pure, intense grass green with no brown or yellow tint.
Most stones, however, show a warm yellowish-green.
2. Clarity
Fine peridot is typically eye-clean, though inclusions like:
• “Lily pads”
• Tiny black mineral dots
are common and characteristic.
3. Cut
Peridot is often cut into:
• Ovals
• Cushions
• Emerald cuts
to enhance its brightness and double refraction (you can sometimes see two of each facet!).
4. Carat Weight
Large peridots over 10 carats are available, and museum pieces exceed 50 carats.
🌍 Where Peridot Comes From
Major sources include:
• Pakistan – home to some of the finest, most saturated greens
• USA (Arizona) – famous for bright lime tones
• China – a major commercial supplier
• Myanmar – known for exceptional crystals
Peridot from Zabargad (Egypt) is historically significant but no longer widely mined.
💰 Peridot Value & Pricing
Peridot is one of the most affordable fine gemstones, with prices ranging from:
• $20 to $300+ per carat, depending on color, clarity, and origin.
Top-quality Pakistani peridot commands the highest prices.
🎁 Peridot in Jewellery
Peridot is the birthstone for August and the 15th wedding anniversary gemstone.
Its cheerful color makes it ideal for:
• Rings
• Earrings
• Pendants
• Bracelets
• Men’s jewellery
Because of its moderate hardness (6.5–7), peridot is durable enough for daily wear but should be protected from hard knocks.
🧼 How to Care for Peridot Jewellery
To keep your peridot glowing:
• Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush
• Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners
• Store separately to prevent scratches
• Protect from sudden temperature changes (peridot is sensitive to thermal shock)
✨ Why Peridot Deserves a Place in Your Collection
Peridot is a gemstone with personality—bright, uplifting, and full of history. It’s a stone that connects the wearer to the Earth’s mantle, ancient civilizations, and even the cosmos. Whether you’re designing a custom piece or adding to your personal collection, peridot offers beauty, meaning, and affordability in one luminous package.
References
Peridot – Wikipedia
GemSelect – Peridot Gemstone Information
GIA – Peridot Gemstone Guide
