What is a Peridot?
Physically, peridot is an iron magnesium silicate. The level of iron in the stone is what determines the intensity and deepness of its color. The stones can range anywhere from having a gold-tinged hue to a brown-tinged hue. The shades are pale green, lime to olive green. The stones from Myanmar often contain rutiles that are tiny inclusions that give the stone a silky shine. It is also possible for the peridot to have a cat's eye or a star effect, but it is very rare and expensive if you can fine them. Of course, a fine quality Kashmir peridot and diamond ring can also be quite exquisite. If you see the name chrysolite, that is referring to a gold-green peridot. You may also hear it called a precious olivine after the type of mineral peridot is.Where does Peridot come from?
The oldest mines can be found on an island in the Red Sea. This is where ancient Egyptians got their supply of peridot for their elaborate jewelry. Of course, this was thousands of years ago and the mines have long since been empty.The island was plagued by poisonous snakes so an Egyptian ruler had them killed off, deserted his miners on the island and trespassers were killed on sight. This was how valuable these stones were to the Egyptians. In fact, they called it the "gem of the sun." Cleopatra wore some peridot, though she probably thought all of her jewels were emeralds.
In the 1990s, a huge deposit of quality peridot was found in Pakistan. These stones are known as Kashmir peridot which designates them as fine quality stones with beautiful green hues. As you admire your lush Kashmir green peridot and diamond ring , imagine the journey it took just to get to your finger. Over 13,000 feet up in very harsh conditions lay the Kashmir mines. Just imagine the trek to get the stones down the mountain. Because the winters in Pakistan can be very treacherous, the peridot could only be mined during the summer. So, appreciate that peridot and diamond bracelet or pendant you have. It took a lot to get it to you.
Myanmar has mines that produce a lighter shade. An interesting source of peridot is found in Arizona. The mine is actually on the San Carlos Apache Reservation and the only people allowed to mine there are the Apaches. Peridot has even come from outer space. The green-gold stones have been found in meteorites fallen to earth. Brazil, Hawaii, Australia and the African Congo have minimally producing mines as well.
August Birthstone
The peridot has long been under appreciated, but not so for those babies born in August. Peridot ring sales pick up this time of year because a ring is the most common birthstone gift.If you weren't born in August, you can ask for a silky rich peridot and diamond bracelet for your 16th wedding anniversary.
