Peridot is a transparent gemstone with yellowish green color. It is a magnesium/iron silicate stone and the chemical formula is (Mg, Fe) 2SiO4. The color of the peridot ranges from yellow green to intense bright green. The velvet appearance, a rich glow and a slightly greasy luster of the peridot is because of the way peridot splits and bends the rays of light passing through it. The value of the peridot increases with the purer green color. Peridot exists only in one color which is the characteristic feature of very few gemstones. The percentage of iron content is typically less than 15 % and also contains nickel and chromium as trace elements in the best colored peridot.

Peridot is mentioned in the Bible under the Hebrew name of pitdah and this gemstone has been mined for an estimated four thousand years before. Egyptians was using this stone as early as 1500 BC and considered peridot as the gem of the sun. Peridot is called by three names such as Peridot, Chrysolith and Olivine. In the early days, miners searched for this gemstone at night because the light from moon made the crystals easy to find. During those days, miners marked the locations of the crystals at night and dug them up in daylight. Quality peridot is found in Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Myanmar, Germany, Pakistan, Arizona, Hawaii in USA and Zagbargad island in the Red sea. Myanmar and Egypt were the producers of best quality peridot until recently. However, in 1994, Pakistan discovered new deposits of peridot which produce some of the finest quality stones. Presently, Arizona is one of the largest sources of peridot, albeit of a lesser quality.

Peridot can be confused with emerald but peridots are more yellowish or olive in color which is completely different from the green of the emerald. Peridot is moderately hard and the hardness is only about 6.5 to 7 in Mohs' scale. Peridot is easy to handle and quite robust. Peridot can be cut only according to its crystal structure. They can be usually cut in classical table and faceted cuts, antique, octagonal or oval shaped and round. Smaller stones are cut as calibrated stones and larger one are cut by designers in to fancy unique specimen stones. Peridot is most suited to daily wear after removing all the disturbing inclusions and requires little any special care.

Peridot is not only used as individual stone but also in jewelry series. The popularity of this deep green gemstone is increasing because of the preference of the green color in fashion world. Peridot is the birthstone of August and is the stone of 16th anniversary of wedding. This stone supposed to bring success, peace and good luck to the wearer. It is worn for the rejuvenation and restoration of mental and physical wellness. Peridot is believed to improve personal relationships. Peridots have healing power and are considered as a tonic for the whole body and protect the wearer from negative effects. Peridots reduce stress and provide relaxation. Asthma can cured using powdered peridot. Peridot is also used to clean and heal the heart by Egyptians.