THE PERIDOT
Olivine family.
Color: Peridot is the yellow-green variety of the olivine family, naturally colored by its iron content.
Main sources: Burma, Pakistan, United States (Arizona), China, Egypt.
The material of peridot, of volcanic or sometimes meteorite origin, can contain characteristic inclusions called "lily pads" that give it a singular charm.
In History
The word peridot comes from the Arabic faridat, meaning "precious gem". It has been mined since antiquity, notably on the island of Zabargad in Egypt, where it was nicknamed the "stone of the sun" and used as a protective talisman. The Crusaders brought it back to Europe, where it was long confused with emerald in ecclesiastical treasuries. It has also been found in meteorites, making it both a terrestrial and celestial stone.
The Smithsonian peridot, cut from a Zabargad crystal, weighs 310 carats and is one of the most famous preserved specimens.
Kashmir peridots, from the mountains of Pakistan, are renowned for their pure green color and exceptional size, sometimes exceeding 100 carats.
The rare and fascinating Pallasite Peridot is extracted from meteorites containing well-formed olivine crystals - a marvel from outer space.
