Peridot

Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, and it is known for its bright yellow-green color. The color range for this stone is small. Sometimes, peridots can have more brown tones or less yellow for a pure green. Iron and magnesium are the elements responsible for the color. The name “peridot” originates from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.”

This stone forms in irregular nodules, which are rounded rocks inside lava flows. Typically, these irregular nodules are found in the United States, China, and Vietnam. In some cases, peridot is mined from large crystals lining molten rock. Finland, Pakistan, Zabargad Island, and Myanmar are all sources of these large crystals. Scientists believe peridot occurs when the sea floor spreads and pushes rocks in the Earth’s mantle to the surface. This phenomenon is why the stone has primarily volcanic origins.

In very rare cases, peridot is mined from meteorites. In 2005, traces of the mineral were found in the comet dust brought to Earth by the Stardust robotic space probe. For some, these extraterrestrial origins are part of peridot’s allure.

Peridot has been around for billions of years, and it has been traced back to the birth of our solar system. Throughout history, the stone was associated with light, particularly in ancient Egypt. Egyptians called this stone “the gem of the sun” and believed it protected the owner from night terrors, especially when set in gold. Sometimes, ancient Egyptians would wear strings of peridot around their left arms, or braid them into their donkeys’ hair to ward off evil spirits.

Some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been peridot because the two stones have often been confused for their green colors. Today, peridot is the birthstone for August and the fifteenth wedding anniversary.

Peridot’s striking yellow-green color is an excellent detail in a piece of high-end jewelry. The talented designers at The Intrepid Wendell create one-of-a-kind pieces featuring peridot and other fine gemstones. We can add peridot stones to your design to achieve something that’s uniquely yours.

Wear this stone as a pendant, earrings, a ring, bracelet, or something more unique, like cufflinks or a brooch. Pair this stone with white gold or yellow gold and add complementary stones, such as diamonds, tourmaline, or other stunning colored gems. We source our stones from around the globe to create luxury pieces for any collection. Our in-house GIA-certified gemologists verify every stone’s authenticity to ensure your piece is of the highest quality.