Featured Gemstone: PERIDOT

Peridot is the term for gem quality Olivine, a common mineral prevalent all over the earth. But unlike Olivine with is heavy and opaque, Peridot crystals are translucent and luminous! Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color: a yellow green. Peridot is also the birth stone on August.

Volcanic activity frequently forms Peridot, and it is often found inside Lava! However, Peridot crystals have also been found inside Meteorites from outer space!

Peridot has been used in jewelry since antiquity, and is found in many bejeweled items in museums around the world. The ring pictured below was made in the 1600s in England, and belonged to a member of the royal house of Stuart. It features a Peridot cut en cabochon. (Victoria & Albert Museum).

This brooch was made in 1900s by American jewelers Marcus & Company, New York. Gold, diamonds, pearls, and enamel accent the faceted Peridot. (Metropolitan Museum of Art).