Peridot at Saras Beads & Jewellery
Peridot is a vivid green gemstone that has captured hearts for thousands of years with its fresh, lively colour and unmistakable warmth. Sometimes called the 'evening emerald' for its sparkling green hue, peridot is a vibrant, olivine-green gemstone with a history spanning over 4,000 years. As the august birthstone and traditional gemstone for 16th wedding anniversaries, peridot holds special meaning for those born in late summer and couples celebrating milestone moments together.
This comprehensive guide covers peridot's history, properties, sources, value, care, and styling tips—providing everything you need to know about this captivating gemstone. It is designed for jewelry enthusiasts, gift shoppers, and anyone interested in August's birthstone, offering insights to help you choose, care for, and style peridot jewellery with confidence.
At Saras Beads & Jewellery, we incorporate peridot into handmade beaded bracelets, sterling silver pendants, and 18K gold-plated necklaces, each piece crafted with care at our UK-based studio in Harrow, founded in 2021. We invite you to explore our peridot and August birthstone pieces online or visit our Harrow store, open Monday to Saturday 9:00–18:00 and Sunday 11:00–17:00.
What to expect from our peridot designs:
-
Hypoallergenic, nickel-free metals suitable for sensitive skin
-
Ethically sourced semi-precious stones from trusted suppliers
-
Mediterranean-inspired aesthetics reflecting our founder’s Lebanese heritage
-
Small-batch handcrafted pieces with subtle, individual character
-
Bespoke options for custom lengths, charms, and personalised gifts
What is Peridot, the August Birthstone?
Peridot is the gem quality variety of the mineral olivine, displaying a distinctive yellowish green to olive green colour that sets it apart from other green gemstones. Unlike emerald or sapphire, which get their colours from trace impurities, peridot is idiochromatic—its green hue comes directly from iron within its own crystal structure. The name peridot may derive from the Arabic 'faridat,' meaning 'gem,' highlighting its linguistic roots and historical significance.
This remarkable stone forms deep in the earth’s mantle, typically at depths of 20 to 55 miles below the surface, and reaches us through volcanic activity. Gemstones like peridot form deep within the Earth's mantle, originating from ancient material and being brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Peridot specifically forms in the Earth's mantle, approximately 20 miles below the Earth's crust, and is one of the few gemstones to originate from this deep layer. This makes peridot one of only a few gemstones that originate from the upper mantle, sharing this distinction with diamond.
Key facts about peridot:
-
Mineral family: Olivine (magnesium iron silicate)
-
Colour range: Pure green to yellowish green, occasionally with olive or brownish green tones
-
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
-
Formation: Mantle-born, brought to the earth’s surface by volcanic eruptions
-
Rarity: Gem quality peridot is considerably rarer than common olivine, making transparent, well-cut stones prized in semi-precious stones fine jewellery
Origin, History & Meaning of Peridot
Peridot is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history stretching back 4,000 years. It carries one of the longest documented histories of any coloured gemstone, with mining records stretching back approximately 3,500 to 4,000 years. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to prize this glowing green stone, extracting it—mined under challenging conditions—from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea—known in ancient times as Topazios and later as St John’s Island. Ancient Egyptians believed that peridot was invisible in sunlight and could only be mined at night. They referred to peridot as 'the gem of the sun' due to its brightness.
Historical texts suggest that what early writers called chrysolite—meaning golden stone in Greek—was likely peridot. The name peridot itself may derive from the arabic word “faridat,” simply meaning gem, or possibly from the French “peritot,” meaning unclear, referring to the stone’s oily lustre. Many historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually been peridot, as the two green stones were often confused in ancient times.
The ancient Greeks associated peridot with the sun, believing it brought strength and vitality to the wearer. Peridot has been used for centuries as a protective talisman against evil spirits and terrors of the night. Medieval Europeans thought the stone could ward off evil spirits and nightmares when set in gold. Crusaders brought peridot back to medieval Europe to decorate cathedrals, including the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral.
Today, peridot continues to symbolise warmth, prosperity, and emotional balance—making it a meaningful gift for August birthdays and 16th wedding anniversaries.
Historical highlights:
|
Period |
Significance |
|---|---|
|
~1500–1300 BCE |
Ancient Egyptians mined peridot on Zabargad Island |
|
Classical antiquity |
Called chrysolite by ancient Greeks and Romans |
|
Medieval period |
Believed to protect against evil spirits and nightmares |
|
Modern era |
Recognised as August birthstone and 16th anniversary gem |
|
|
Used in medieval European cathedrals |
Symbolic meanings associated with peridot:
-
Protection from negativity and harmful energies
-
Invitation of prosperity and good fortune
-
Emotional healing and balance
-
New beginnings and personal growth
-
Connection to nature and the warmth of the sun
-
Believed to balance the Heart Chakra and Solar Plexus in crystal healing
-
In Hawaii, symbolizes the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess
-
Associated with the zodiac sign of Libra
At Saras Beads & Jewellery, we find these associations make peridot particularly suited to personalised pieces that mark life’s meaningful moments.
Peridot Properties & Colour
Understanding peridot’s physical properties helps you appreciate why this stone works beautifully in everyday jewellery while still deserving gentle care.
Peridot’s colour comes entirely from iron within its chemical composition. The finest specimens display a lively, pure green or slightly yellowish green without brownish or muddy undertones. Stones with too much iron appear darker and less vibrant, while those with less iron lean toward a paler, more yellow hue. The ideal balance creates that distinctive grass-green glow that makes peridot instantly recognisable.
With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the mohs scale, peridot sits in the middle range of gemstone durability. This makes it well-suited for pendants, earrings, and occasional-wear rings, though it’s softer than sapphire, ruby, or diamond. For pieces worn daily in high-impact situations, protective settings help preserve the stone’s beauty.
Gemological properties at a glance:
-
Hardness: 6.5–7 Mohs
-
Refractive index: Approximately 1.64–1.70
-
Specific gravity: Around 3.27–3.36
-
Lustre: Vitreous (glassy)
-
Transparency: Translucent to transparent
One distinctive feature of peridot is its strong double refraction, which can create a subtle doubling effect when viewing inclusions through the stone. Speaking of inclusions, natural peridot often contains characteristic lily pad inclusions—small disc-like features surrounded by circular stress fractures—as well as tiny dark chromite crystals. These internal features help gemmologists confirm a stone’s natural origin. For those interested in wearing peridot, you may find beautifully handcrafted gemstone adornments among the sterling silver nose rings at Saras Beads.
Where is Peridot Found?
Modern peridot comes from several key regions around the world, each producing stones with slightly different colour characteristics and qualities.
The historic Zabargad Island in Egypt’s Red Sea, also known as St John's Island, remains significant for gem history, though the ancient mines are now largely exhausted. For centuries, peridot was mined from this island, supplying the Mediterranean world with prized peridot, including stones that may have adorned Egyptian royalty.
Today, the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona stands as one of the world’s most productive peridot sources. The peridot mesa in this region yields abundant smaller stones with bright, cheerful green colour, making Arizona peridot accessible for everyday jewellery.
For larger, more saturated crystals prized in fine jewellery, Pakistan’s Suppatt region and Myanmar (formerly Burma) produce exceptional material. These sources often yield large crystals with intense colour that command premium prices.
Peridot can also be found in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Africa, as well as the United States. Other notable sources include Australia, Norway, Brazil, and Vietnam, each locality offering unique qualities and shades. This global distribution makes peridot a widely available gemstone, though gem-quality stones remain prized and relatively rare.
Perhaps most remarkably, peridot is one of the few gemstones found inside meteorites that have traveled from outer space. Tiny peridot crystals occur in pallasite meteorite specimens—iron-nickel meteorites containing olivine pockets. Scientists have also identified olivine on the Moon and Mars, giving peridot a truly “out of this world” appeal that few other gems can claim.
Global peridot sources:
|
Location |
Characteristics |
|---|---|
|
Arizona, USA (San Carlos) |
Smaller stones, bright green, abundant supply |
|
Pakistan (Suppatt/Kashmir region) |
Larger crystals, fine colour saturation sapphire gemstone |
|
Myanmar (Mogok) |
High-quality, saturated green |
|
Variable quality, see our guide on jewellery gifts for every special occasion significant handmade jewellery production |
|
|
Vietnam |
Emerging source, good colour |
|
Tanzania and Africa |
Various qualities, African origin |
|
Australia |
Limited deposits |
|
Norway |
Small deposits, historical interest |
|
Brazil |
Various qualities |
Peridot as a Birthstone
Peridot holds a special place as the official birthstone for August, making it a cherished choice for peridot jewelry and meaningful gifts during this vibrant summer month. The name peridot comes from the Arabic word “faridat,” meaning “gem,” a fitting tribute to its enduring value and allure. As one of the few gemstones that appears in only one color, peridot crystals are instantly recognizable for their lively yellowish green to brownish green hues—a result of iron within the mineral olivine. While the shades can range from a soft olive to a pure green, the most prized stones display a fresh, golden-green glow that sets them apart from other green gemstones.
Throughout history, peridot has been associated with good fortune, happiness, and prosperity. Ancient Egyptians, among the first to mine and treasure peridot, believed it could ward off evil spirits and bring its wearer luck and protection. This tradition of gifting peridot jewelry for good fortune continues today, especially for those celebrating August birthdays or seeking a meaningful talisman.
Peridot’s journey from deep within the earth’s mantle to the surface is a testament to its rarity and resilience. Brought forth by volcanic activity, peridot is often found in regions shaped by ancient lava flows. The Peridot Mesa on the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona is one of the world’s most significant sources, producing gem quality stones that are highly sought after for their clarity and color. Other localities, such as China, Myanmar, and Pakistan, also contribute to the global collection of this unique birthstone.
Collectors and gem enthusiasts value peridot not only for its color but also for its fascinating inclusions. Many peridot stones feature “lily pad inclusions”—tiny, disc-like patterns that add character and help confirm the gem’s natural origin. Large crystals of peridot, especially those with a pure green shade and minimal inclusions, are considered especially rare and prized.
On the Mohs scale, peridot rates between 6.5 and 7, making it durable enough for everyday jewelry while still deserving a little care. Its rich history, from being called “chrysolite” or “golden stone” by the ancient Greeks to its modern status as the august birthstone, ensures that peridot remains a timeless and meaningful choice. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant color, its storied past, or its reputation for bringing good fortune, peridot is a gemstone that continues to captivate and inspire—perfect for celebrating life’s special moments in August and beyond.
Peridot Value and Pricing
The value of peridot is influenced by several factors, with colour and clarity being paramount. The preferred shade is a pure grass green without any brown or muddy undertones. Stones that are transparent and free of inclusions, particularly lily pad inclusions, tend to command higher prices.
Peridot's price can vary significantly based on its carat weight, with larger stones generally commanding premium prices due to their rarity. Fine quality peridot in sizes above five carats is especially prized among collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.
Caring for Peridot Jewellery
While peridot is durable enough for regular wear, it appreciates gentle care to maintain its sparkle and prevent scratches over time.
Cleaning your peridot:
-
Clean peridot jewelry with a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water
-
Gently clean with a soft brush or lint-free cloth
-
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
-
Never use steam cleaners or ultrasonic devices, as peridot is vulnerable to thermal shock and can be damaged by these methods
-
Never use harsh household chemicals or abrasive cleaners
Protecting your peridot:
Peridot can be sensitive to thermal shock—sudden temperature changes—and strong acids. It can also be damaged by long-term exposure to acidic perspiration. Remove peridot rings and bracelets before: articles
-
Swimming in chlorinated pools
-
Using cleaning products
-
Applying perfume, hairspray, or skincare
-
Cooking or handling hot items
For tips on caring for your handmade jewellery, especially beaded collections, visit our blog.
Storage tips:
-
Store peridot pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box
-
Keep away from harder stones like diamond, sapphire, or cubic zirconia to prevent scratching
-
Consider individual compartments for each piece in your collection
Due to its relative softness (6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale), it is not recommended to wear peridot jewellery daily in rings, especially if exposed to rough wear. Earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings are better suited for this gemstone.
Styling Peridot Jewellery
Peridot is often set in yellow gold to enhance its warm tones or in white metals like sterling silver or platinum for a striking contrast. Its fresh green colour pairs beautifully with both cool and warm metals, making it versatile for everyday wear and special occasions alike.
The stone’s colour pops against neutral backgrounds—think white shirts, cream linens, and soft grey knits. For evening looks, warm gold-plated settings enhance peridot’s sunny undertones, creating an elegant, glowing effect. Peridot is sometimes called the 'evening emerald' for its sparkling green hue, making it an elegant choice for special occasions. Sterling silver, meanwhile, offers clean, modern contrast that suits daytime styling and minimalist aesthetics.
Styling suggestions:
-
Layering necklaces: Combine a peridot pendant with simple gold-plated chains at varying lengths for dimension
-
Stacking bracelets: Mix peridot beaded bracelets with plain sterling silver bangles or other gemstone pieces
-
Family birthstones: Pair peridot with other months’ stones—like sapphire for September or topaz for November—to create personalised family jewellery
-
Seasonal wear: Peridot shines in spring and summer wardrobes but also adds refreshing contrast to darker autumn and winter outfits
One reason peridot makes such an excellent gift is its universal flattering quality. The stone’s green suits a wide range of skin tones and eye colours, making it a safe choice when you’re selecting jewellery for someone whose exact style preferences you might not know.
Peridot in Saras Beads & Jewellery Designs
At Saras Beads & Jewellery, we specialise in combining peridot with sterling silver, 18K gold-plated finishes, and hand-strung beads to create modern pieces with Mediterranean-inspired warmth.
Design styles featuring peridot:
-
Minimalist charm necklaces: Small peridot pendants on fine sterling silver chains, perfect for everyday elegance
-
Stacked bracelets: Peridot beads paired with copper turquoise and other semi-precious stones for textured, layered looks
-
Talisman pieces: Peridot combined with our signature Evil Eye designs, blending protection symbolism with natural beauty
-
Delicate earrings: Peridot studs and huggie hoops in sterling silver or gold-plated settings
Every piece uses hypoallergenic, nickel-free metals, ensuring comfort for sensitive skin. We work with ethically sourced semi-precious stones, maintaining the quality and integrity our customers expect.
Because our peridot jewellery is handcrafted in small batches, each piece carries subtle differences in bead shape, tone, and character. This artisanal approach means your peridot isn’t identical to anyone else’s—it’s distinctly yours.
Customers seeking something truly personal can request bespoke peridot designs. Whether you need a custom-length bracelet, a specific clasp style, or a personalised charm combining peridot with other birthstones, our team welcomes the conversation.
Bespoke & Gift Ideas with Peridot
Peridot’s symbolic meanings and distinctive colour make it ideal for personalised jewellery and thoughtful gifts that carry real sentiment.
Customisation possibilities:
-
August birthstone bracelets: Peridot beads paired with an engraved charm or initial
-
Multi-birthstone pieces: Layered necklaces featuring peridot alongside other family members’ birthstones
-
Bridesmaid sets: Matching peridot accent pieces for wedding parties
-
Anniversary gifts: Custom peridot pendants or earrings for 16th wedding anniversaries
-
Celebration pieces: Unique designs marking graduations, new jobs, or fresh life chapters
Our bespoke service allows you to discuss every detail—length, metal colour, bead combinations, clasp preferences—to create something that fits your vision and budget perfectly.
Occasions suited to peridot gifts:
|
Occasion |
Gift idea |
|---|---|
|
August birthday |
Peridot pendant or studs |
|
16th anniversary |
Custom peridot and gold-plated set |
|
Graduation |
Meaningful charm bracelet with peridot |
|
New beginnings |
Peridot and Evil Eye talisman piece |
|
Friendship |
Matching peridot bead bracelets |
To begin a custom peridot project, contact our Harrow store, reach out via our website, or connect with us on social media. We’re always happy to discuss ideas and help you create something meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peridot
These common questions help customers feel confident when choosing peridot jewellery.
Is peridot suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, with sensible care. Peridot rates 6.5–7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable enough for regular wear in earrings, pendants, and occasional rings. Avoid wearing peridot during rough activities or when using chemicals.
How do I know if peridot is real?
Natural peridot typically shows a consistent green colour and may contain characteristic inclusions like lily pad features or tiny dark crystals. Buying from reputable jewellers like Saras Beads & Jewellery ensures authenticity and quality.
Which metals look best with peridot?
Both sterling silver and gold-plated settings complement peridot beautifully. Silver creates a clean, contemporary look, while gold tones enhance peridot’s warm, sunny qualities. Choose based on your personal style and wardrobe.
What size stones work best for delicate jewellery? For example, you might consider a peridot gemstone for its delicate size and vibrant color.
Smaller, well-cut peridot stones suit studs, dainty pendants, and beaded designs perfectly. Larger stones make striking statement pieces but work best in protected settings like bezels. If you're looking for inspiration or places to purchase, explore some of the best jewellery shops in London.
Is peridot good for sensitive skin?
When set in hypoallergenic metals like sterling silver or nickel-free gold plating—as all Saras Beads & Jewellery pieces are—peridot jewellery is comfortable for sensitive skin.
Can peridot be worn in the shower or pool?
We recommend removing peridot jewellery before swimming or showering. Chlorine and temperature changes can affect both the stone and metal settings over time.
How does peridot compare to other green gemstones like emerald?
While emerald is harder and typically more valuable, peridot offers its own distinct beauty at a more accessible price point. Unlike emerald, peridot’s colour comes from its core chemistry rather than trace elements, giving it a warm, golden-green glow that stands apart from the cooler tones of other gems.
Peridot’s vibrant green and rich history make it a gemstone that truly stands out in any jewellery collection. Whether you’re celebrating an August birthday, marking a 16th anniversary, or simply drawn to its fresh, lively colour, peridot offers timeless appeal with a personal touch.
Explore our peridot collection at Saras Beads & Jewellery online or visit our Harrow store to see these beautiful stones in person. For bespoke enquiries or gift advice, we’re always here to help you find—or create—the perfect piece.
Leave a comment