Peridot is a variety of olivine and, unlike many gemstones whose colour results from trace impurities, it comes from the composition of the mineral itself – magnesium and iron. The deeper and purer the green, the smaller the amount of iron.
The gem occurs in volcanic rocks (basalts), lava, within the earth’s mantle and in meteorites! In 1749, one such meteorite was found in Siberia which yielded many peridot crystals big enough to create jewellery with. It is believed it fell to the earth’s surface as early as 14.8 million years ago.
Peridot is found all over the world although some of the best quality stones come from Egypt, Myanmar and, recently, Pakistan. New sources of peridot include Arizona, Mexico, Oregon, Norway, Pakistan, Russia and Sri Lanka.