Peridot (Olivine)

The olive green gemstone

overview

Naming : The Greek word peridona means "to give in abundance". This word is probably the origin of the name peridot, which was initially only used by French jewelers for a gem-quality olivine. At the same time, peridot was known in other countries as chrysolite (Greek for goldstone). However, the name peridot gradually became more common.
Mineral group: Peridot belongs to the olivine group and is also known as olivine or chrysolite. The name chrysolyte is quite outdated and refers not only to peridot, but also to many other stones of a similar color.
Color : Peridot only exists in green variants. This makes it one of the few gemstones that only comes in one color. The substance that gives peridot its color is iron. The green color palette for peridot ranges from light, pistachio or olive-like yellow-green, sometimes it has a slightly brownish tone.
Cut : Peridot is usually cut into facets. The special star peridot has a cabochon cut that shows a four- or even six-rayed shining star.
Special feature : Peridot cat's eyes and star peridot are particularly rare. Peridot gemstones with these special light effects are extremely rare.

Color

Most peridots are yellow-green. However, the most sought-after gemstones are those in a pure grass-green.

carat

The carat is used to measure the weight of a gemstone. One carat (ct) weighs approximately 0.2 grams. The carat number is very important for the price of a gemstone. The cut, color and clarity are also of great importance for the value.

purity

Most peridots are eye-clean – this means that impurities are not visible to the naked eye.

cut

Peridot comes in a variety of cuts: oval, emerald and cushion cut.

The historical Peridot

Peridot was mined in Egypt in ancient times and came to Europe with the crusaders. In the Middle Ages, churches particularly sought after it as a gemstone. In Cologne Cathedral, for example, you can admire green gemstones that were long thought to be emeralds. In fact, however, they are huge peridot gemstones weighing 200 to 300 carats. The fascinating green of peridot still makes it a sought-after gemstone. However, some caution is advised. The somewhat brittle peridot tends to shatter under strong stress.

Special Peridot

One of the most famous peridots is the so-called "312-carat gem". The 311.80-carat peridot from Egypt is currently in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution.

Special occasions

birthstone

Peridot is considered the birthstone for August.

wedding anniversary

The peridot is the gemstone for the 15th wedding anniversary.

occurrence of peridot

Important locations for finding peridot are Egypt and Tanzania. However, there are also locations in China, Myanmar, Vietnam, Pakistan and the United States.

Jewelry with Peridot (Olivine)

Are you looking for an exceptionally beautiful loose peridot or a fine peridot ring or other peridot jewelry? At RENÉSIM you can get the most beautiful gemstones in the best quality. Simply fill out the contact form. We look forward to your non-binding inquiry and will be happy to advise you!

Peridot selection at RENÉSIM

At RENÉSIM you will find a large selection of Peridot gemstones in unique color nuances. You can also have the gemstone you choose set into an enchanting piece of jewelry.

Loose gemstones