Peridot Information, Properties and Folklore

Peridot is the gem form of the mineral olivine. Because the iron which creates the color is an integral part of its structure, it is found only in green, ranging from a summery light yellowish green to a 7 up soda bottle green.

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The Romans called peridot "evening emerald,"since its green color did not darken at night but was still visible by lamplight. Peridot later was also often used to decorate medieval churches, probably carried back to Europe by the Crusaders. Large peridots, more than 200 carats in size, adorn the shrine of the three magic at the Cologne Cathedral.

Today most peridot is mined by Native Americans in Arizona on the San Carlos Reservation. Fine large peridot are found in Myanmar (formerly Burma) and peridot is also mined in China and Sri Lanka.

One gemstone is born in fire: peridot, the volcanic gem. Small crystals of peridot are often found in the rocks created by volcanoes. Although peridot is treasured in Hawaii as the goddess Pele's tears, almost all of the peridot sold in Hawaii today is from Arizona, even though peridot is produced by Hawaii's volcanoes. The island of Oahu even has beaches made out of olivine grains but unfortunately they are much too small to cut into peridot!

Periodot is associated with the heart chakra.

Peridot is believed to assist in rebirth and renewal of all kinds.

Peridot is believed to help heal relationships and lessen stress and jealousy.

Peridot is believed to Stimulates intellect and spiritual awareness.

Peridot is the gemstone of the astrological signs Gemini, Pisces, Aries.

Mohs Hardness = 7.58