Peridot

Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine. It is an unusual idiochromatic gem, which means its colour comes from the basic chemistry of the mineral itself (iron) rather than from a trace impurity. Peridot therefore exists in only one colour: yellowish-green to olive green. It is typically formed in the intense heat of the earth’s mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic basalts, and has also been recovered from pallasite meteorites. Its high birefringence produces a distinct doubling of internal inclusions, particularly the “lily pad” inclusions characteristic of Pakistani material.

Shop the Peridot collection Back to full encyclopedia