What is a Peridot?
Peridot is the birthstone for August. Peridot is a gem variety of the mineral olivine, and comes in varied shades of yellowish green. It was referred to by the Romans as the “Evening Emerald” since its intensity tends to increase in lower levels of light. The beauty of peridot is natural and it is not routinely enhanced. Although it is rated 6.5 to 7 in hardness, peridot should be handled with more care than some other gemstones. Avoid sudden changes in temperature or contact with caustic household substances. Use a soft brush with warm soapy water to clean your peridot and avoid use of ultrasonic cleaners.
