Peridot

Peridot is a mineral that belongs to the olivine group, and it has the chemical formula (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. Here are some of its characteristics:

  1. Color: Peridot is typically yellow-green to olive-green in color, although it can also be brownish-green or pure green.

  2. Hardness: Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively durable and suitable for use in jewelry.

  3. Transparency: Peridot is usually transparent to translucent, although some specimens may have inclusions that affect their clarity.

  4. Lustre: Peridot has a vitreous (glassy) lustre, which means it has a shiny, reflective surface.

  5. Origin: Peridot is found in various parts of the world, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Myanmar, China, and the United States (Arizona and Hawaii).

Some of the most famous peridot specimens include:

  1. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany, which contains a large peridot that weighs over 200 carats.

  2. The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., which has a peridot that weighs over 310 carats.

  3. The British Museum in London, which houses a peridot that is over 2000 years old and was acquired from Egypt.

  4. The Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, which has a peridot that weighs over 400 carats and is set in a gold pendant.

  5. The peridot engagement ring that Prince Edward gave to Sophie Rhys-Jones when he proposed in 1999.