Zabarjad: Peridot Gemstones

Peridot is the gem form of olivine, a mineral that forms deep in the earth's mantle. It is one of the few gems that comes in only one colour family, green, caused by iron. The shade varies from yellowish lime to a rich olive and, in the best stones, a bright grass green with no brown.

Pakistan matters here. In the 1990s, high-altitude deposits in the Sapat valley of Kohistan began producing large, clean, vivid peridot that set a new benchmark worldwide. Burmese, Arizona and Chinese material is also common. We only state origin where we know it.

What sets the price

Colour comes first: pure, lively green beats yellowish or brownish tones. Size counts heavily, because clean peridot above 5 carats is far scarcer than small stones. Look closely in the photos for tiny "lily pad" inclusions, round disc-shaped features that are typical of peridot and help identify it. Too many reduce brightness.

Peridot is almost always untreated. Green glass and synthetic spinel imitations exist. Peridot shows strong doubling of the back facets under a loupe, which glass does not.

Peridot is sometimes offered as an affordable stand-in for emerald where tradition allows, and many buyers love it simply as the August birthstone. Its bright green looks fresh in both yellow and white gold.

Hardness 6.5 to 7 means peridot is softer than its bright look suggests and can be scratched by dust over years. It is also sensitive to acids and sudden heat. A protective bezel helps in rings. Clean with warm soapy water only and keep it away from strong chemicals.