Did you know that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection might have actually been peridot?
Throughout history emeralds and peridot have often been confused and mistaken for one another.
This wonderful gem has always been associated with light, with Egyptians calling it "gem of the sun".
The word peridot comes from the Arabic "faridat" and means "gem". It is also a birthstone for August and is sometimes referred to as "olivine" or "chrysolite".
I was lucky to see this famous chrysolite weighing 192 carat when I visited the Diamond Fund (Almazny Fond) Exhibition at the Kremlin in Moscow. It once belonged to the Russian royal family.
Let's take a look at some other fun facts:
Its colour ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow
Peridot that shows a stronger green colour and no yellow or brown hues is more sought-after and more valuable
Peridot is typically transparent and eye-clean (shows no noticeable inclusions)
Although most peridot originate deep in the Earth’s mantle, scientists have also found them embedded within meteorites and scattered across the surface of Mars!
Source
Arizona's San Carlos Indian Reservation in the US is considered to be the main source of peridot.
Other sources include Myanmar and Pakistan. Typically, finer peridot of higher quality is found there.
Peridot was especially popular during the Victorian and Edwardian Era when bright coloured gemstones were the height of fashion.
What jewellery era speaks to you? Check out this blog to find out:
Availability
Peridot is considered plentiful and relatively inexpensive.
It is one of the most affordable gems which is why it is very popular in the mass-market jewellery, along with garnet and amethyst.
It is available in a large variety of shapes and sizes making it perfect for large statement pieces such as cocktail rings as well as smaller jewellery items. But don’t go too small, the smaller the stone, the lighter the colour looks.
Larger stones show more saturated colour so I recommend going larger to really appreciate this unique gemstone's vibrancy.
Treatments
Unlike many other coloured gemstone like sapphires and emeralds, peridot does not undergo any treatments.
August Birthstone
Peridot is also known for the following traits:
alleviates stress and anxiety
powerful aid to repairing and maintaining friendships
commonly linked to protection against evil
has the ability to keep you calm and safe no matter what is going on around you
Do you know what powers and qualities your birthstone holds?
Visit my previous post titled Beauty and Power to find out!
Durability
In terms of hardness, peridot scores a 6.5-7 out of 10 on Moh's scale.
It is considered to be on the soft side compared to other gemstones. Peridot scratches easily and therefore requires more care.
With sapphires and rubies at 9 and diamonds at 10, these can scratch your peridot if not stored properly or if they rub against each other.
Although I would not recommend peridot for an engagement ring, it makes a great option for large cocktail rings (for occasional wear) and other jewellery such as pendants and earrings.
Pro Tip: don't shy away from adding this gorgeous gemstone to your collection, just be careful while wearing it.
Is peridot on your wishlist?
I would love to hear about it!
To discuss your options, schedule a complementary, 30 minute connection call with me here
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