Peridot
Peridot is a solid solution of the end members forsterite and fayalite and varies in its color spectrum from yellow-green to intense green. It is one of the most important and common minerals in the Earth’s mantle. However, good qualities are hard to find on the surface of the earth, for the investment sector as well as jewelry sector.
Peridot, Pakistan (24.23 ct)
Class: Silicates
Genesis: Magmatic
Colors: light green to intense green
Hardness: 7
Optical effects: Cat’s eye effect, rarely a star effect
Most important occurrences: Pakistan, China, USA, Myanmar, Norway
The origin of the name peridot has not yet been conclusively clarified, especially since several names have been used for this stone in history (including chrysolite). Since in ancient times this material came from the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea via crusaders to Europe, the green peridot mixed with other green stones such as topaz.
It is believed that in addition to emerald, the Egyptians also used peridot as green stones in jewelry.
Other historic sites are Pakistan and Myanmar, where good grades are steadily diminishing.
