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August Birthstones Part Three

  • 8 hours ago
  • 2 min read

The color of a perfectly ripe pear or the yellowish green of moss, Peridot has enchanted people since the Egyptians began mining it on an island in the Red Sea.  It has always been associated with light with the Egyptians referring to it as the gem of the sun!

A Custom Peridot and Damascus Steel Pendant I created for a client!
A Custom Peridot and Damascus Steel Pendant I created for a client!

First Things First: How Do You Pronounce Peridot?


The word Peridot is usually pronounced with a soft ‘t’ because of the Old French lineage of the word. So, Peri-DOH is the accepted pronunciation in the industry.


What is Peridot?


Peridot belongs to the mineral family Olivine, and is formed in the earth’s upper mantle. It is brought to the surface with volcanic activity. 


Interestingly, the chemical make-up of Peridot makes the color exclusively green to yellow/green with no other colors possible.


Where Does It Come From?


Today, Peridot is mined in the United States, China, Vietnam, Finland, Pakistan, Myanmar, and the island of Zabargad (in the Red Sea). 


Peridot Mesa, located in the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona is where a large portion of the world’s supply of Peridot is mined.  Up until the 20th century, the Apache Indians mined and traded Peridot amongst the tribe only.  According to tribal law, anyone of the tribe can mine the Peridot, but there are only a few families that have claimed areas of land to mine.  The Peridot is sold and distributed through The Apache Nations Peridot Enterprise, as well as, another trading post just off the reservation. 


What Next?


I would love to help you explore Peridot with your special purchase or custom design! Angela Cisneros Jewelry Concierge brings back the joy and confidence of jewelry shopping, so that you can celebrate with ease! My by-appointment approach means:

  • One-on-one appointments (personal attention and no crowds!)

  • Discretion and privacy (surprises remain surprises!)

  • Expert help from a Graduate Gemologist with 29 years of experience (yep, that’s me!)

Learn more about me and my process: www.AngelaCisneros.com  

Book your FREE appointment with me today! www.AngelaCisneros.com/book-appointment

 
 
 

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