The gemstone form of the mineral Olivine, it occurs in colors from yellowish-green to a "late summer grass" green. It is the birthstone for August.
The name peridot is from the Greek "peridona" which means roughly "to give richness," and the vivid "grass green" color is the most prized. The best quality gems available today come from Pakistan or Afghanistan, although there are fine gems available from the USA, China, Myanmar, Australia and Africa as well. Large, transparent peridots with intense color are rare and highly valued. Peridot is perfect for any kind of setting.
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Photos courtesy of: A.Balthrop/Akanni