When it comes to green gemstones, emeralds are most likely the first to pop into our minds. But if you are looking for a green gem other than an emerald, a peridot gemstone is worth considering. The alluring olive-green hue of peridots makes them hard to resist. They can add a touch of elegance to any jewelry piece, be it a ring or pendant. But how much is a peridot gemstone worth? If you want to find the answer to this question, you have come to the right place.
In this article, we will explore the captivating world of peridots, understand their history and symbolism as well as familiarize ourselves with the factors that determine their worth.
Peridot Gemstone
Peridot is a green variety of the Olivine mineral family and gets its unique green color from the presence of iron in its crystal structure. Peridot comes in different shades of green, ranging from pure green to yellowish green and brownish green. The finest gemstones are the ones that do not have any hint of yellow or brown.
Peridot has a rating of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Its fair to good durability makes it a good choice for gemstone jewelry, but you must wear it with care to prevent scratching.
History and Symbolism
Peridot gemstones have been treasured throughout history. They were first discovered on a small volcanic island in the Red Sea called Topazios, which now goes by the name of St. John’s Island or Zabargad. In ancient times, the Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the sun” and held the belief that it would protect them from night terrors.
Additionally, peridot gems were initially mistaken for emeralds due to their green hue. This confusion has led some historians to speculate that some of the green stones in Cleopatra’s renowned emerald collection could have been peridots.
Peridot is a gemstone full of deep significance. It is referred to as the stone of compassion and is said to symbolize good health, prosperity, strength, and balance. Peridot is the August birthstone and is ideal for people with the Leo and Virgo zodiac signs. It is also the gemstone for the 16th wedding anniversary.
Also Read: 5 Essential Tips for Caring for Your Precious Ruby Necklace
The 4 Cs
Four key factors are taken into consideration when it comes to evaluating a gemstone. These factors are known as the 4 Cs — color, cut, clarity, and carat. Let’s take a look at the 4 Cs of peridot.
Color
Peridots are coveted for their beautiful and unique green hue. The color of a peridot gemstone plays a crucial role in determining its worth. The finest peridot gems are the ones that reveal a stunning and pure green hue, without any hint of yellow or brown.
Cut
While gemstones can be cut into different shapes, an ideal cut has the power to bring out the best in it, elevating its beauty and brilliance. While you can find it in different shapes and cuts, including oval, round, pear, princess, emerald, and cushion, the round and emerald cuts have the potential to highlight the brilliance and the color of peridots the best!
Clarity
The top-quality peridots are clear and free from any visible inclusions and may be relatively expensive. However, if you want to get a peridot that is still beautiful but more affordable, you can consider buying the ones with minor inclusions. These inclusions are generally small and do not affect the gemstone’s overall appearance. However, it is best to avoid purchasing peridots that are blurry or cloudy, as these may be of lower quality and not as visually appealing.
Carat
The final factor that helps determine the worth of a gemstone is the carat/size. Peridots that are 10 carats and above are considered the finest, as they display a mesmerizing green hue.
Final Thoughts
The color, cut, clarity, and carat are the four factors that help determine the price of a peridot gem. It is best to familiarize yourself with these 4 Cs and establish a budget to make an informed purchase. Are you looking for good quality peridot gems? GemsNY has a stunning collection of peridots, starting from $59!
Recommend0 recommendationsPublished in Jewelry
