How Does Peridot Form?
Peridot is formed deep within the Earth's mantle, at depths of around 30 to 90 km beneath the surface. It is brought to the surface by volcanic activity and can also be found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth. This makes peridot a relatively rare gemstone and adds to its value.
The green colour of peridot comes from the presence of iron in the mineral's chemical makeup. The amount of iron in the peridot determines the shade of green with lighter green stones having less iron and darker green stones having more. Peridot can also exhibit a yellowish-green or brownish-green colour.
Some Properties Of Peridot.
Peridot has a number of unique physical properties that make it a desirable gemstone. It has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for use in jewellery. It has a vitreous (glassy) lustre and a specific gravity of 3.2-4.4.
One of the most interesting properties of peridot is its ability to glow in ultraviolet light. This phenomenon, known as fluorescence, is caused by the presence of trace amounts of nickel and chromium in the stone. When exposed to ultraviolet light, these elements cause the peridot to emit a greenish-yellow glow.
How Has Peridot Been Used In The Past?
Peridot has been used for centuries in jewellery and decorative objects. The ancient Egyptians, who called it "the gem of the sun," used peridot in their religious jewellery and believed it had protective powers. In ancient Rome, peridot was prized as a symbol of wealth and power.Today, peridot is still a popular gemstone. It is relatively affordable compared to other green gemstones, such as emerald, and is often used in less expensive jewellery. Peridot is also the birthstone for August, making it a popular choice for birthday gifts.
Some Tips For Your Peridot Jewellery.
When selecting a period for jewellery, there are a few things to consider. In addition to colour, look for stones with good clarity and minimal inclusions. Peridot is often cut into faceted shapes to enhance its brilliance and sparkle, but it can also be cut into cabochons or other shapes.Care must also be taken when cleaning and caring for peridot jewellery. Peridot should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and should never be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners. It is also important to protect peridot jewellery from scratches and sharp blows.
Peridot and Sterling Silver Make Beautiful Earrings.
Peridot and sterling silver are a perfect match for earrings because they complement each other's beauty and durability. Peridot's natural green colour looks stunning against the cool, sleek sheen of sterling silver. The understated elegance of the silver setting allows the peridot gemstone to take centre stage while the silver itself adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design.Peridot sterling silver earrings can be found in a wide variety of styles, from simple studs to more elaborate designs with multiple stones and intricate settings. With their timeless elegance and enduring beauty, peridot sterling silver earrings are a versatile accessory that can be worn with everything from casual outfits to formal evening wear.
Peridot is a beautiful gemstone with a rich history and unique scientific properties. Its deep green colour and fluorescence make it a popular choice for jewellery and its relative affordability adds to its appeal. Whether you're a lover of gemstones or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, peridot is a gemstone worth exploring.