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Peridot
Main Deposits
USA (Arizona), Pakistan, Myanmar, China, and Egypt (Zabargad Island)
Description and Characteristics
Peridot is the transparent variety of the magnesium iron silicate known as olivine. It forms under extreme conditions, primarily in the Earth's upper mantle, and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Its vibrant green color is intrinsic to its chemical composition (due to iron), meaning it does not rely on external impurities to show its characteristic hue. It ranges from light yellowish-green to deep olive green. It is a gemstone of great clarity and vitreous lustre that has been valued since antiquity for its freshness and its ability to glow even under dim artificial light.
| Chemical Formula | $$(Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous to greasy |
| Streak | White |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Cleavage | Imperfect to poor |
| Hardness | 6,5-7 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
Did you know...?
It is literally a "space gem": peridot crystals have been found in meteorites (pallasites) that have fallen to Earth, making it one of the few jewels of extraterrestrial origin. Ancient Egyptians called it the "Gem of the Sun" and believed it protected the wearer from the terrors of the night. An important care tip is that while it has decent hardness, it is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and strong acids, so it should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasounds.
New-Age Properties
Peridot is known as the "stone of abundance" and purification. It is associated with the heart chakra and is believed to help release emotional "baggage" such as stress, jealousy, or resentment. Spiritually, it is a protective stone for the aura that helps understand one's spiritual purpose and move forward on life's path with confidence. Mentally, peridot sharpens the intellect and opens the mind to new levels of awareness, banishing lethargy and helping one admit their own mistakes to correct them with optimism.