Peridot is actually gem quality variety of the forsteritic olivine. The name of this semi-precious stone is believed to have been derived from the Arabic word 'faridat' which means "gem" or from the French word 'peritot' which means "unclear." Peridot is just one of the very few gemstones which is available in only one color.



With this gemstone, the depth of green basically depends on the amount of which is contained in its crystal structure. This varies from a yellow-green hue to an olive shade to a brownish green hue. It is also often known as the "poor man's emerald". Now, olivine, where peridot is derived, is a actually a very abundant mineral; however, gem-quality peridot is quite rare. Peridot crystals were collected from several Pallasite meteorites.

It is a volcanic gemstone and has a hardness of 6.5 with a luster that is vitreous to oily. It is the birthstone of people who were born in the month of August. It has many holistic properties including the ability to help in the stimulation of personal awareness and growth. It is also believed to have the power of protecting the wearer from cynicism and assistance in garnering assertiveness.

In folklore, Romans were said to have prescribed administering medicines in goblets that have been made with Peridot. They believed that doing so actually strengthens the remedy. The peridot was also referred to as the 'evening stone' because the color of the semi-precious stone does not fade during nighttime or under lamplight.

This stone can be mined in Brazil, Burma, the USA, St. John's Island, South Africa, Norway and China.