Peridot
What is peridot?
Its name comes from the Arabic “faridat,” which means “gem.” It is the gem variety of the mineral olivine.
Its chemical composition includes iron and magnesium, with the iron being the cause of its attractive yellowish-green colour. It is often found with inclusions of black mineral needles that resemble fine hair.
Where does peridot come from?
Formed under extreme temperature and pressure deep in the Earth’s mantle, reaching the surface through volcanic activity. It can also be found in some meteorites known as pallasites (although gem quality of suitable size is not common).
More terrestrial locations are China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and Arizona, USA.
Mining of peridot began on the Egyptian island of Zabargad around 340–279 BCE where its harsh conditions earned it ominous names like Island of Death and Snake Island.
Is peridot hard-wearing?
Peridot is softer than many gems and can easily become abraded or damaged, so it’s more suited to pendants than to be worn in an everyday ring for example.