Peridot is the birthstone for August and the 15th anniversary gemstone.

The word peridot comes from the Arabic “faridat,” which means “gem.”

Most peridot formed deep inside the earth and was delivered to the surface by volcanoes.

Found in lava, meteorites, and deep in the earth’s mantle, yellow-green peridot is considered an extreme gem.

Some also came to earth in meteorites, but this extraterrestrial peridot is extremely rare, and not likely to be seen in a retail jewelry store.

Peridot has always been associated with light.

The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the Red Sea island of Zabargad (St. John’s Island) the source for many large fine peridots in the world’s museums.

The Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun.”

Today this gem is still prized for its restful yellowish green hues and long history.

Interesting facts:

*Some peridot is ancient: it’s found in pallasite meteorites, remnants of our solar system’s birth.

*In 2005, peridot was found in comet dust brought back from the Stardust robotic space probe.

*Some historians believe that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection might actually have been peridot, and people in medieval times continued to confuse peridot with emerald.

*For centuries, people believed the fabulous 200-ct. gems adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were emeralds. But they are, in fact, peridots.

Ideas for Peridot in Jewelry:

Pair it with Amethyst and Garnet for fabulous earrings . . .

Accent it in a Cultured Pearl Pendant with Blue Topaz . . .

Add to a fun multi-gem bracelet . . .

Surround it in a Diamond Ring  . . .

We   Peridot!

Gold Market Diamond Jewelers, located at 17th & Pace next to Safeway.

Providing excellent and friendly service to customers from Longmont, Firestone, Frederick, Mead, Berthoud, Lyons, Estes Park, Niwot and Boulder.