The etymology of the name Peridot has generated some confusion: it probably derives from the Arabic word“ faridat ”( gemma), but another tradition makes it derive from Middle English “ peridote ” (bright spot, button).
The Peridot is an idiochromatic gem belonging to the Silicates group. Colored by a high content of iron, which constitutes an important part of its composition, Peridot can present even more intense shades thanks to the traces of chromium and nickel. Although it is a transparent gem, you can occasionally find Cat’s Eye Peridots, which are gems that have a luminous trail on the surface, caused by needle-like inclusions.
The classic source of extraction of Peridot was for years the Zabargad Island, about 89 km from the Egyptian coast on the Red Sea. The largest deposit in the world, however, is located in the Apache Reserve of San Carlos, Arizona, while other locations are in China and Pakistan.
Its delicate appearance has made the Peridot a much loved gem with a fascinating historical and mythical tradition. In the past it was believed that Peridot could facilitate friendships, free the spirit from envy and develop eloquence. Marbodius of Rennes (1035-1123) wrote in his mythological compendium “Liber de Lapidibus” that the Peridot, to be used as a protection from evil spirits, would first have to be pierced, then stuck with a donkey’s hair and finally hung on the arm. left. Mentioned in several places in the Bible with its ancient name of Chrysolith, Peridot was a gem also loved by Pirates, as it was able to ward off evil spirits and the fear of the dark.
The colors of the Peridot include the different shades of green, although the most coveted specimens are those with a pure intense grass green. If the stone is small in size, it can be eye-clean, but being a Type II gem, Peridot always has inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.
The finest specimens of Peridot are mined in the Suppatt region near the Himalayan mountains in northwestern Pakistani Kashmir. The famous Kashmir Peridot has a more beautiful color and larger size with a higher degree of purity. Unfortunately, the offer is very limited due to the harsh winters that make it possible to extract it only in the months between June and September.
• How to cure jewelry with Peridot
For some gemstones, the drastic change in temperature could cause damage. Peridot belongs to this group and should not be exposed to thermal shock.
