Wednesday, August 26, 2009

August Birthstone - Peridot

Peridot and Diamond Ring

A Peridot and Diamond Ring SKU W2507

The origin(s) of the word peridot is uncertain. Some sources state the word is derived from the Arabic word faridat meaning 'gem'. Other sources suggest the word originates from the Anglo-Norman pedoretes, which describes a type of opal.

What isn't open to discussion is the fact that the peridot, a variety of chysolite or olivine minerals, only occurs in the colour green - the hue dependent upon the degree of iron in the basic crystal structure. (Occasionally, peridots may be inadvertently mistaken as emeralds).


A Pair of Peridot Cufflinks SKU W2466Pair of Peridot Cufflinks


It is considered that the best quality peridots are mined in Pakistan. Other diverse mining areas include Arizona, Australia, China, Hawaii, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and Tanzania.

http://www.acsilver.co.uk/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=1579&idcategory=0