Peridot Jewelry Guide: The Vibrant Green Gemstone

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color — a distinctive olive to lime green that has been admired since ancient Egypt. Unlike most gemstones whose color comes from trace elements, peridot's green is an inherent part of its mineral composition, making every peridot a naturally green gem.

What Is Peridot?

Peridot is the gem variety of the mineral olivine, a magnesium iron silicate. It forms deep within the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. In fact, peridot is one of only two gemstones formed in the mantle rather than the Earth's crust — the other being diamond. With a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, peridot is suitable for most jewelry applications when treated with reasonable care.

Understanding Peridot Quality

Color

Peridot ranges from yellow-green to olive green to brownish-green. The most valued shade is a rich, saturated lime green to pure green without excessive yellow or brown modifiers. Stones with brownish tones are less desirable. The finest peridots display a vivid green with a slight golden undertone that gives them a warm, lively appearance.

Clarity

Fine peridots are typically eye-clean. The stone can contain characteristic "lily pad" inclusions — small, flat disc-shaped inclusions that are actually diagnostic of natural peridot. Heavy inclusions, especially dark spots or clouds, significantly reduce value.

Cut

Peridot is cut in all standard shapes, with oval, cushion, and round being most popular. The stone's double refraction (you can see doubled back facets through the stone) is a unique optical property that skilled cutters minimize through proper orientation.

Carat Weight

Peridots under 5 carats are common and accessible. Stones between 5-10 carats are available but command higher per-carat prices. Specimens over 10 carats with fine color are rare. For context on sizing, see our carat weight guide.

Peridot Origins

• Myanmar: Produces the finest, most saturated peridots with pure green color
• Pakistan: The Suppat mine in Kashmir produces exceptional large stones
• Arizona, USA: The San Carlos Apache Reservation is a major source
• China: Produces large quantities of commercial-quality peridot
• Ethiopia: A newer source producing fine quality material

Peridot as a Birthstone

Peridot is the birthstone for August and the gemstone for 16th wedding anniversaries. Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun" and believed it protected the wearer from nightmares. Cleopatra's famous emerald collection is now believed to have actually been peridot.

Peridot vs Other Green Gemstones

• vs Emerald: Emeralds are deeper green, harder, and far more expensive. Peridot offers a brighter, more yellow-green tone at accessible prices.
• vs Green Tourmaline: Tourmaline is available in darker greens and is harder. Peridot has a unique golden-green warmth.
• vs Tsavorite Garnet: Tsavorite has more saturated green and is harder, but peridot is more widely available and accessible.

Caring for Peridot

Peridot is moderately durable but requires some care. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Peridot is sensitive to acids (even mild ones like lemon juice) and should not be exposed to sudden temperature changes. Remove peridot rings before heavy work. For complete care tips, visit our gemstone care guide.

Browse our peridot collection and read our complete buying guide for expert advice.