The unique bottle-green of peridot has been treasured (even if Cleopatra thought they were emeralds) for almost 4,000 years. Originally mined solely on the Red Sea island of Saint John, Egypt, this birthstone for the month of August is now mostly produced in Arizona, Myanmar and Pakistan (source of the finest peridot ever seen.) Peridot is also the only gemstone on earth that has been found in meteorites!

A member of the olivine species, peridot, at its best, can be easily found for well under $300 per carat. This 16th wedding anniversary stone comes in a variety of shades from olive green to yellowish, brownish and a lively lime green. The purer the green, the higher the price. Typically, the presence of brownish tones will lower value. As opposed to the bright brilliance of emerald, top quality peridot green will have a more velvety or oily appearance. You should also consider clarity fairly closely when purchasing peridot. Make sure to examine the stones from the top, sides and bottom under various light sources. If you see black patches you should probably consider another stone.

Peridot is sometimes treated with oils or waxes for improved appearance. Be sure to ask your jeweler what treatments have been performed on any stone you are considering, and get them clearly written on your bill of sale.