Peridot Guide
What is peridot?
PERIDOT QUICK GUIDE
- Emerald
- Round
- Cushion
- Mineral:
- Olivine
- Origins:
- China, Vietnam, Tanzania, United States
- Symbols:
- Strength, Good Health
- Properties:
- Mood-boosting, Creativity
- Durability:
- 6.5 to 7
Enhancements
CARE
Similar Gemstones
- Emerald
- Citrine
- Aquamarine
What to Look for in Peridot
Peridot is a relatively common gemstone found in hardened lava flows around the world, including in China, Vietnam, Tanzania and the United States. The finest and rarest peridots in the purest green hues come from Myanmar and Pakistan. The August birthstone, peridot is a much-loved gemstone for special jewelry.
Peridot is one of the few green-colored gemstones, and gemstone-quality peridot is rather rare, although the mineral itself is very common throughout the world. When you’re perusing peridot, look for these qualities:
COLOR
Gemstone color is probably the most important aspect of a gem. The most desirable peridot gemstones feature a rich green color with no visible inclusions, while the best value is found in a gemstone with olive tones and minor inclusions that look just as striking. A high-quality peridot stone will have a more intense color. We offer a wide range of peridots in lighter and deeper colors to meet different styles and budgets. Consider the peridot stone shape and hue that most appeals to you.CUT
Though it has a smaller color range, peridot also works with a variety of gemstone cuts that showcase its hues in different ways. Popular shapes for peridot include emerald, oval, round, pear, triangle, cushion and marquise. The ideal cut and shape for any gemstone is the one that best displays its color and brilliance. An emerald cut enhances the color of peridot, while round and oval cuts maximize sparkle.CLARITY
Gemstone clarity is an important evaluator for many gemstones. Almost every gemstone contains marks known as inclusions, which are liquids, gas bubbles, mineral traces, and other debris found inside stones. Fine peridot is usually "eye clean," meaning that its inclusions are only visible when magnified. Peridot with a few visible inclusions offer the best value, and their unique marks only add to their one-of-a-kind appeal.SIZE (CARAT)
Gemstone size, unlike diamond size, is generally measured in millimeters in diameter. Peridot is available in a variety of sizes. Smaller gemstones are abundant, while larger sizes are rarer.ENHANCEMENT
Most gemstones receive enhancements, such as heat treatment and infusions, to improve their appearance. Our gemstones are enhanced using only approved techniques to bring out the brilliant color and clarity of our peridot jewelry.
Hardness & Wearability
Choosing the Right Peridot Jewelry
Peridots Throughout History and in Popular Culture
Cleopatra was the first to popularize peridot gemstones back in Ancient Egyptian times, with many of her jewels featuring this “Gem of the Sun.” It is believed that peridot was the favorite gemstone of Edward VII of England, with many vintage Edwardian jewels from 1901-1910 featuring this green gem. Peridot’s popularity continued through the 20th century and it has maintained its standing as a gemstone of choice today.
In modern popular culture, peridots can be found everywhere. They're a gem of choice for modern-day royalty and pop culture celebrities. Peridot’s popularity has even spilled over into children’s shows, with a children’s cartoon featuring a character named after this vibrant gemstone.
Peridot Gemstone Meaning
This gemstone’s ties to the sun, volcanoes and even celestial origins (some peridot gems have been found in meteorites!) bring unique energy and symbolism. Ancient Egyptians regarded peridot as “The Gem of the Sun” due to its persistently bright colors. It was believed that peridots could provide protection from evil. Today, peridot gemstones symbolize strength and good health.
As with all jewelry, you may have your own special meanings you attribute to peridots. Some people choose to wear this jewel for its August birthstone symbolism, or they wear it simply because they like the color.
Matching Metals to Peridot
Famous Peridot Gemstones
How to Care for Your Peridot Jewelry
- Practicing the proper gemstone care will keep your peridot jewelry gorgeously glimmering for a lifetime. Give it a regular cleaning with warm, soapy water, using a soft brush and a gentle scrubbing motion. Store it in a quality, felt-lined jewelry box to protect it from scratches.
- Over time, your beautiful peridot jewelry may need repair or professional cleaning. We offer free and convenient cleaning and repair services for all of our gemstone pieces.
Buying Tips
- 1Focus on the color that’s within your budget. Lighter-green peridots are often available for a lower price than darker ones.
- 2Pick a metal that matches the style. Peridot jewelry is available in white gold, yellow gold and silver. Choose the metal that best matches your style or the style of the wearer.
- 3Choose the cut that maximizes the best features for you or your loved one. Certain gemstone cuts will highlight peridot’s features differently. An emerald cut will highlight the stone’s green hues, while a round cut will highlight sparkle.
Learn More About Gemstones
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