Colorless (D–Z scale) to fancy yellow, pink, blue, green, and brown, exhibiting adamantine luster and 0.044 dispersion.
Chemical formula
C (Isometric Crystalline Carbon)
Other Gemstones • Forsterite-Fayalite Olivine Series (Nesosilicate)
Peridot (Olivine)
Idiochromatic (colored by its essential iron content rather than trace impurities) in shades of lime green, yellowish-green, to deep rich olive-apple green.
(Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ (Magnesium-Iron Silicate; ~88–92% Forsterite)Mohs 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Other Gemstones |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Forsterite-Fayalite Olivine Series (Nesosilicate) |
| Gemological Variety | Peridot (Gem-Quality Forsterite Olivine) |
| Chemical Composition | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ (Magnesium-Iron Silicate; ~88–92% Forsterite) |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5 – 7.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.28 – 3.38 |
| Refractive Index | 1.650 – 1.690 (Strong Birefringence 0.035–0.038) |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Idiochromatic (colored by its essential iron content rather than trace impurities) in shades of lime green, yellowish-green, to deep rich olive-apple green.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
One of Pakistan's greatest contributions to world gemology: discovered in 1994 at over 4,500 meters altitude in the Sapat Valley (Naran-Kaghan / Kohistan border), where hydrothermal pockets in serpentinized peridotite yield the largest, finest euhedral peridot crystals ever found on Earth.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Pakistani Sapat Valley peridots—sometimes called 'Kashmir Peridot' in international trade—regularly exceed 20 to 100+ carats with velvety grass-green saturation and diagnostic 'ludwigite' needle inclusions.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Statement rings, pendants, and earrings; its strong birefringence produces visible doubling of pavilion facets in deep stones.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Peridot is virtually never heat-treated or enhanced; its vibrant green color is 100% natural.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Sensitive to acids, rapid thermal shock, and ultrasonic vibrations; clean only with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Called the 'Gem of the Sun' by ancient Egyptians on Zabargad Island; symbolizes renewal, warmth, and abundance. Official August birthstone.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Other Gemstones
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Chemical formula
Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ (Aluminum Fluoro-Hydroxyl Silicate)
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Chemical formula
ZrSiO₄ (Zirconium Silicate, with trace Hf, U, Th)