​Peridot
Peridot has been mined for over 5,000 years. In ancient times peridot was used to treat illnesses of the gall bladder and Napoleon once made a gift of peridot to Josephine as a symbol of his undying love. Today catholic bishops wear a ring of peridot and amethyst as a symbol of purity and morality. A tiny island – St John’s Island – is the oldest known producer of gem-quality peridot. The island is situated in the Red Sea, off the coast of Egypt. The highest quality peridot is found in Myanmar and 15,000 feet above sea level in the Himalayas or Pakistan. Peridot is also mined in the U.S state of Arizona and China.
Properties
Peridot is 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale.
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Colours
Green.
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Birthstone and Anniversary Stone
Peridot is the birthstone for August and is traditionally given as a gift for a 16th wedding anniversary.
