The Gem of Light, Growth, and Inner Strength

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that appears in only one color—green. But what a green it is. Radiant, fresh, and full of life, Peridot glows with a natural energy that evokes sunlight, renewal, and growth. Known as the “Evening Emerald,” Peridot has a storied past and a modern appeal that’s gaining renewed appreciation among collectors and designers alike.

Formed deep within the Earth and sometimes delivered by meteorites, Peridot is truly a gem born of fire and cosmic wonder.

🔬 Scientific Profile

Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. Its vibrant green hue is caused by the presence of iron in the crystal structure. It forms in the orthorhombic crystal system and typically occurs in volcanic rocks like basalt, as well as in pallasite meteorites from outer space.

Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for daily wear with thoughtful setting and care. It has a high birefringence (double refraction), which gives it a visible doubling of facets in well-cut stones—a hallmark of natural Peridot.

Its refractive index ranges from 1.65 to 1.69, and its specific gravity falls between 3.2 and 3.4. Peridot typically forms as clean, transparent crystals and is rarely treated or enhanced—what you see is nature’s pure intention.

🌿 Color and Variety

Peridot is always green, but the shade can range from a light, yellowish-green to a deep, rich olive. The most prized Peridots are a vivid grass green with minimal brown or yellow undertones—especially those found in larger sizes.

The finest quality Peridot often comes from Pakistan, where crystals are found high in the Himalayan mountains. These stones are known for their vivid saturation and exceptional clarity. Myanmar (Burma) has also historically produced top-grade material.

Peridot from Arizona is more common and accessible, often showing a lighter or more golden-green tone. These gems are especially popular in Southwestern and artisanal jewelry.

Peridot is rarely seen in stones over 10 carats, and larger gems over 20 carats are very rare and collectible. Despite its accessibility in smaller sizes, top-color Peridot with exceptional clarity remains a high-demand stone among connoisseurs.

📜 History and Symbolism

Peridot has been revered for over 3,500 years. Ancient Egyptians mined it from the Red Sea island of Zabargad (St. John’s Island) and believed it protected against nightmares and evil spirits. Cleopatra herself may have worn Peridot, mistaking it for emerald due to its glowing green hue.

In medieval Europe, it was set into church treasures and royal jewelry, often associated with divine light and heavenly power. Peridot was also believed to bring prosperity, health, and peace to its wearer.

In metaphysical traditions, Peridot is considered a stone of growth, renewal, and emotional clarity. It is said to open the heart chakra, release jealousy and resentment, and bring about personal transformation. It is often used to promote confidence, optimism, and forward motion in times of change.

Peridot is the birthstone for August and is traditionally gifted for the 16th wedding anniversary.

💎 Peridot in Jewelry

Peridot’s unique green glow makes it a standout gemstone in all types of jewelry. It shines beautifully in yellow and rose gold, where its warmth is enhanced, but also pairs well with white metals for a fresh, modern contrast.

Thanks to its transparency and brightness, Peridot is often cut into ovals, cushions, and rounds, though artisan jewelers also use freeform and fantasy cuts to emphasize its natural brilliance.

Because of its relative softness compared to sapphire or spinel, Peridot should be worn in protective settings—especially in rings. It performs beautifully in pendants, earrings, and bracelets, where wear is less intense.

Whether used in delicate vintage pieces or bold contemporary designs, Peridot brings a sense of vitality and brightness that few other gems can match.

✨ Find Vibrant Peridot at Chicago Gems & Jewelry

At Chicago Gems & Jewelry, we offer a carefully curated collection of fine Peridot—from crisp Arizona stones to deep green Himalayan treasures. Each gem is hand-selected by our GIA graduate gemologist for color quality, clarity, and character.

Whether you're designing a meaningful August birthstone piece, a radiant summer ring, or a fresh addition to your gem collection, our Peridot inventory brings the perfect blend of elegance and energy.

Located in Crystal Lake, Illinois and family owned since 2008, we are proud to provide gemstone expertise, personalized service, and a passion for helping you find the right stone for every story.

Chicago Gems & Jewelry – Where Knowledge Meets Beauty, and Every Stone Tells a Story.