PERIDOT

Specifications

Mineral Class: Olivine
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Hardness: 6.5 - 7
Luster: Vitreous to Oily
Diaphaneity: Translucent to Transparent
Colors: Green
Birthstone: August
Symbolizes: Compassion
Source: Brazil, Canada, Canary Islands, Egypt, Italy, Ireland, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, and USA

Peridot is also called Chrysolite, and is a gem quality variety of Olivine. It has a high magnesium content giving it a higher desirability in the gem industry. Unlike most other crystals and minerals, Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color; and that is olive green. What changes within a peridot, is the saturation and tint of the green which is dependent on how much iron is present within. Peridots then can range in color, from pale yellow, to olive to brown-green though they have quite rarely been a pure green with no secondary hints or tints.