Home >> Science & Nature >> Rocks & Minerals

Peridot Gem Colors

Peridot is a gemstone that is part of the olivine family of minerals. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot presents very few variations in color. Peridot gems can be found within a small range of green colors, from light yellow to a dark brown-green. Being familiar with the range of peridot gem colors can help you make informed decisions when purchasing peridot jewelry.

Light Yellow Green
- The light yellow green peridot is most commonly used for August birthstone jewelry.
  
  Most birthstone jewelry utilizes the light yellow green version of peridot because it is the easiest to find. The color can be described as being almost translucent with more yellow than green. Due to the increased transluency of the yellow green stones, they appear best in natural daylight.
Olive Green
- Vivid green peridots are the most desirable.
  
  An intense olive green is the most desirable gem color for peridot. Stones with an olive green color do not change their appearance in artificial light. Peridot gems in this color range are most often used for high-end statement pieces as their color is striking.
Brownish Green
- A pure brown peridot is considered especially rare. Brownish green peridots are not as translucent as the light yellow peridots. Peridots in this color range are rarely used for jewelry as they do not sparkle in the light.
The Role of Iron in Peridot Gem Color
- The color of the peridot gem is determined by the concentration of iron in the crystal. Stones with higher levels of iron appear in the light yellow green or brownish green range. Peridot in the olive green range are composed of less than 15 percent iron. Nickel and chromium may also play a role in the vivid olive green color.

Rocks & Minerals