Peridot

Peridot is one of only two gemstones formed in the Earth's mantle (diamond is the other). Most peridot reaches the surface through volcanic eruptions; some peridot has fallen to Earth in meteorites — making it the only commercial gemstone of extraterrestrial origin. The ancient Egyptians mined peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad (also called Saint John's Island) in the Red Sea, an operation guarded so heavily that for 3,500 years the location was a state secret. Cleopatra's famous "emerald" jewelry was likely peridot — gemological identification was imprecise in antiquity. The Crusaders brought peridot back from the Holy Land thinking it was emerald; major medieval cathedrals in Cologne, Köln, and elsewhere display these mistakenly identified peridots in their crown jewels. Modern peridot sources include Pakistan (extraordinary deep green), Arizona (San Carlos Apache Reservation), Vietnam, and Myanmar.

Peridot symbolizes light, abundance, and the protective power of the sun. The Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun" and believed it warded off the terrors of the night. Ancient Hawaiians considered peridot the tears of the volcano goddess Pele. Roman naturalists wrote that peridot dispelled enchantments and dispersed evil spirits. In Vedic astrology, peridot corresponds to Mercury and is recommended for those needing communication clarity, emotional lightness, and protection from envy. Modern crystal healing places peridot at the heart chakra (despite its color, the warm tone is considered emotional rather than just visual). The gem is associated with prosperity, attracting positive opportunities, and protective light.

The Smithsonian's 311-carat peridot, mined from Zabargad Island, is the largest cut peridot in any museum. The Diamond Jubilee Pendant at the Tower of London contains a 192-carat peridot from Egyptian sources, given to Queen Elizabeth II in 1952. The Cologne Cathedral's central altar displays three 200-carat peridots that were once believed to be emeralds — only identified correctly in the 19th century. Pakistan's Suppat mines have produced spectacular gem-quality peridots up to 75 carats since 1992.

Peridot is moderately hard (Mohs 6.5-7) — durable for most jewelry but more fragile than the harder gems (sapphire, ruby). Avoid ultrasonic cleaners (peridot is heat-sensitive and brittle). Clean with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Store separately from harder stones to prevent scratching. Despite folklore that peridot is sensitive to the moon, no scientific basis exists for this claim — peridot is stable in normal conditions.