Peridot Informative Guide
Peridot Gemstones
Peridot is one of the softer gemstones on the Mohs scale, coming in at 6.5-7. Because of this level of hardness, it is not recommended that you wear this every day because it increases the chances of your gemstone being scratched or damaged. As for cleaning this gemstone you should only clean it with warm soapy water because if you ultrasonic or steam clean this piece, it is too soft of a stone and will most likely damage it.
As one of the few gemstones that are found in only one color, peridots have a fairly long and interesting history. Peridot is technically classified as an "olivine," which is a magnesium-rich mineral. The peridot stones that we see today are actually formed deep within the earth's mantle, and are brought to the surface through volcanoes.
Most peridots on the market today come from Arizona, but they have also been found in other locations such as China, Pakistan, and even Hawaii. Given its unique formation process, it's no wonder that peridots have been prized by many cultures throughout history.
The Egyptians were some of the first to harness the power of peridot, and they used it in a variety of ways. Not only was peridot used in jewelry, but it was also ground up and used as a pigment in paints and other artwork.
The Egyptians weren't the only ones to appreciate peridots, however. In the Middle Ages, peridots were actually more valuable than diamonds! This is likely because peridots were much rarer than diamonds at the time.
Of course, today we know that diamonds are far more abundant than peridots. However, peridots are still considered to be fairly valuable gemstones. In fact, peridots are often used in high-end jewelry pieces such as engagement rings and necklaces.
If you're interested in peridot, then you'll be happy to know that it's actually a fairly easy gemstone to care for. Unlike some other stones, peridots don't require any special cleaning or care. Simply wiping them down with a soft cloth is usually all that's needed to keep them looking sparkling and new.
So, there you have it! A brief history of peridot and some tips on how to care for this beautiful gemstone. Whether you're already the proud owner of a peridot piece or you're simply considering adding one to your collection, we hope this guide has been helpful. Thanks for reading!