Peridot is a vibrant, olive- to lime-green gemstone that has been admired for centuries. It is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine and is known for its rich green hue and striking brilliance, especially when faceted.

Peridot Characteristics:

1. Color:

   • The defining feature of peridot is its green color, which can range from yellow-green to olive-green to brownish-green, depending on the iron content.

   • Unlike many gems, peridot’s green is always natural and not enhanced with treatments.

2. Clarity:

   • High-quality peridot stones are usually eye-clean, though some may contain lily pad inclusions — disk-like shapes caused by stress fractures, which are characteristic and not necessarily undesirable.

3. Cut/Faceting:

   • Peridot is commonly faceted in a variety of cuts: round, oval, emerald, cushion, and pear.

   • Skilled cutting enhances its brilliance, especially under natural or artificial light, giving it a glowing, radiant look.

4. Hardness and Durability:

   • Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, making it moderately durable but susceptible to scratches and chips, especially in rings.

   • It has perfect cleavage, so it must be cut and set carefully.

5. Luster:

   • Exhibits a vitreous (glassy) luster and is quite sparkling when faceted well.

Uses in Jewelry

1. Types of Jewelry:

   • Popular in rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and brooches.

   • Often used as a center stone or accent gem in both classic and contemporary designs.

2. Setting Considerations:

   • Due to its relative softness, peridot is best suited for protected settings (e.g., bezel settings) in rings and is more durable in earrings and pendants.

3. Metal Pairings:

   • Looks stunning in yellow gold, which enhances its green hue.

   • Also pairs beautifully with white gold, platinum, and sterling silver for a modern look.

4. Affordability:

   • Peridot is relatively affordable compared to other green gemstones like emerald, making it accessible yet elegant.

Birthstone and Symbolism

1. Birthstone:

   • Peridot is the birthstone for August.

   • Also associated with the 16th wedding anniversary.

2. Symbolism & Lore:

   • Believed to bring good luck, peace, and success.

   • Thought to protect against nightmares and evil spirits, especially in ancient Egyptian and Roman traditions.

   • Associated with the sun and was called the “gem of the sun” by ancient Egyptians.

3. Zodiac Connection:

   • Linked to the Leo zodiac sign, enhancing traits like confidence, warmth, and leadership.

 Additional Metaphysical and Healing Properties

(Note: These are not scientifically proven, but are part of crystal healing beliefs.)

1. Emotional Balance:

   • Thought to alleviate stress, anger, and jealousy, promoting emotional healing.

   • Helps open the heart chakra, fostering compassion and relationships.

2. Physical Benefits (claimed):

   • Believed to aid in digestion, liver health, and detoxification.

   • Used in crystal healing to boost the immune system and improve skin conditions.

3. Spiritual Growth:

   • Said to enhance intuition, clarity, and spiritual growth.

   • Used in meditation to connect with higher realms and remove energy blockages.