| 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. |