Peridot ( /ˈpɛrɨdɒt/ or /ˈpɛrɨdoʊ/) is gem-quality forsteritic olivine.
The chemical composition of peridot is (Mg, Fe)2SiO4, with Mg in greater quantities than Fe.
The origin of the name “peridot” is uncertain. The Oxford English Dictionary suggests an alteration of Anglo–Norman pedoretés (classical Latin pæderot-), a kind of opal, rather than the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem”.
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color, an olive green. The intensity and tint of the green, however, depends on how much iron is contained in the crystal structure, so the color of individual peridot gems can vary from yellow- to olive- to brownish-green. The most valued color is a dark olive-green.
Peridot olivine is the birthstone for August.
It is sometimes mistaken for emeralds and other green gems. In fact notable gemologist George Frederick Kunz discussed the confusion between emeralds and peridots in many church treasures, notably the “Three Magi” treasure in the Dom of…
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