Peridot
Sources: Pakistan, Arizona, Brazil, Burma, Chin, Sri Lanka.
Hardness on Mohs scale: 6 ½ - 7
Common Enhancements: None
Birthstone: August
Cleaning Methods:
- Ultrasonic: not recommended.
- Steamer: not recommended
- Warm soapy water: safe
Peridot is a mineral variety part of the Olivine group. Transparent to translucent it has an appearance that goes from yellowish to brownish green and has been cherished since the time of Ancient Egypt 3,500 years ago. Peridot is one of the few gemstones which comes in only one color green and as a general rule it is not enhanced in anyway. Traditionally, intense green with a slight tinge of gold is the most prized. Equally beautiful is the Pakistani Peridot that can come in soft, minty green. When peridot jewelry need to be professionally repaired or cleaned, it is recommended to caution bench jewelers never to put it in acid solutions, avoiding sudden temperature changes.