Is Peridot a Brittle Stone?
” Compared to some stones it can be considered brittle. It does not tolerate rough treatment. It has a tendency to abrade at the facet junctures. However as long as the wearer realizes it is a somewhat delicate stone, it can last for generations. Treat it as you would a fine designer dress, only for special occasions, but you can be secure in the knowledge that it will be impressive! As with all gems, protect peridot from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean peridot in a home ultrasonic cleaner. The largest cut peridot weighs 310 ct. and was found on the island of St John. It is at present in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. In Russia there are some cut peridots which came out of a meteorite which fell in 1749 in eastern Siberia. The most important deposits of Peridot are in the Red Sea on the volcanic island of St. John, 188 miles east of Aswan. They have been mined for 3500 year
