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Peridot

Structure : Orthorhombic
Hardness : 6.5
Specific Gravity : 3.34
Refractive index : 1.64 - 1.6
Doubly Refracting (bi-refraction) : 0.036

Identification

      In 1994 the finest Peridot known to man was discovery at an altitude of 3950m in the Himalayan Mountains of Pakistan. The deposit was rich, and offered excellent quality and a reliable supply. This find helped to stabilise the Peridot trade, and high quality goods were offered at more reasonable prices. The highest quality stones from this region are known as "Kashmir-Peridot". Very large "Kashmir-Peridot" crystals have been faceted.  A 310 ct gem was cut by the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. 

     Fine gem quality Peridot has also been found in the other two large producers of Peridot, namely Myanmar (Burma) and the United States.  Good quality stones have also been found in China, Brazil, Hawaii, Australia, South Africa and Mogok.  China's Peridot production is increasing steadily, and could soon take Myanmar’s spot of top producers. Today Peridot is readily available, fine quality and large gem quality sizes are rare and can fetch high prices. Top Peridot colour is generally described as a pure-green, and the presence of yellow will decrease the value of the stone.

 Peridot Faceted Gem

Birefringence 0.35-0.38
Refractive index 1.64 - 1.69
Specific Gravity 3.34
Mohs, Hardness 6.5 - 7
Fracture Chonchoidal
Lustre Greasy to Vistreous
Transparent to Translucent  
Distinct Pleochroism  
Common inclusions:  
Disk like, liquid and gas inclusions known as "lilypads"
 Dark Chromite crystals may also be present.
 
 

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