Peridot Rings

Fresh and lively, our peridot rings showcase this vivid green gemstone in settings that range from clean and minimal to ornate and expressive. Each ring celebrates peridot's naturally joyful energy.

What makes peridot to be green?

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color: green. Its hue is caused by the presence of iron within the crystal structure of the mineral olivine, from which peridot is formed. Unlike many other gems where color is due to trace impurities, the green in peridot is an inherent and consistent feature of the mineral itself.

Peridot forms deep within the Earths mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. It is often found in volcanic basalt rocks and occasionally in meteorites, though gem-quality material from space is extremely rare. Most of the peridot used in jewelry today comes from sources such as Arizona, Myanmar (Burma), China, and Pakistanregions known for producing stones with excellent clarity and color.

The exact shade of green depends on the amount of iron present. Higher iron content can lead to a deeper olive or slightly brownish tone, while lower iron levels tend to produce a brighter, more vibrant yellow-green. This variation in saturation is natural and plays a key role in the stones overall beauty and value.

Peridot does not require treatments or enhancements to achieve its color. What you see is the genuine result of natural forces over millions of years. This purity is one of the reasons peridot continues to appeal to customers seeking an earth-born gemstone with a refreshing, natural glow.

What should I look for when buying a peridot gemstone?

When evaluating a peridot, color is the most important factor to consider. The most desirable stones show a lively, rich green without too much yellow or brown. Look for a color that appears saturated and even, especially when the stone is viewed face-up. A clean, vibrant green is a good sign of higher quality.

Clarity also plays a key role in determining quality. Peridot is typically eye-clean, meaning most stones used in fine jewelry should have no visible inclusions. Look for stones that are transparent and free from cloudiness or distracting imperfections, as these can dull the gems lively sparkle.

Cut affects not only the overall brilliance but also how light interacts with the stone. Peridots are often cut into traditional shapes like oval, cushion, round, or emerald. Some stones feature a checkerboard-style faceting on the table (top of the gemstone), which creates a playful, sparkling effect as light hits the many small facets from different angles. This style adds visual interest and brings out the stones natural vibrance, especially in larger gems.

Well-proportioned, symmetrical cuts with crisp facet edges will maximize the gems brilliance and color. At MyJewelrySource.com, we offer peridots in a variety of cuts and carat weights, carefully selected to showcase the stones natural beauty and ensure a standout presentation in each jewelry design.

How durable is peridot for everyday wear?

Peridot ranks 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it more resistant to scratches than softer stones like opal or turquoise. However, it is still not as hard as sapphires or diamonds, so some care is needed if the stone will be worn daily. One key factor to consider is that peridot has a moderate level of brittleness and can be chipped or fractured under impact.

The design of the setting can greatly influence the stones long-term durability. Protective settings like bezels or rings with heavier prongs can shield the edges and help prevent accidental damage. It's also wise to remove peridot jewelry before doing any hands-on work, cleaning, sports, or gardening. This minimizes the chance of knocks, pressure, or thermal shock that could compromise the gem.

Despite these considerations, many customers enjoy their peridot jewelry daily without issue. The key is mindful wear and thoughtful care. Peridot is a beautiful and affordable choice, and if it does become scratched or damaged, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to replace compared to other gemstones.

Why do some peridots look yellowish while others are more vivid green?

The color range in peridot can span from golden-green to a deeper, more intense lime or olive green. This variation is primarily due to differences in iron concentration within the stone. Higher levels of iron can result in a stronger olive tone or introduce a subtle brownish tint, while lower iron levels lead to a crisper, more vivid green with fewer yellow undertones.

Lighting and the angle at which the stone is viewed can also influence the perceived color. Some peridots shift slightly in appearance under natural versus artificial lighting, though they are not considered pleochroic. Additionally, stones with cloudiness or internal flaws may appear more muted or yellowed.

At MyJewelrySource.com, we focus on sourcing peridots with rich, saturated green tones and minimal brown or yellow influences. We find that customers prefer gems with a clean, fresh appearance that stands out in both gold and white metal settings. Careful stone selection ensures each piece highlights the best qualities peridot has to offer.

Fun Fact

Steeped in ancient lore, peridot has long been celebrated for its mystical properties. In ancient Egypt, it was treasured as the "gem of the sun," with pharaohs and royalty adorning themselves with it to invoke the light and warmth of the sun. Historical texts recount that peridot was believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies, a tradition that has imbued the stone with a sense of protective power and enduring allure.