Peridot

Gemstone 🎂 August birthstone

Also called: olivine

The gem form of olivine, always green. It forms in volcanic rock and has also been found in some meteorites.

How to identify Peridot

Olive-green color that does not change
Fairly hard but brittle
Doubled back-facets visible through the stone

Often confused with

Green tourmaline
Green garnet
Green glass
Moldavite

Real or fake?

Natural peridot has a slightly oily, rounded inclusion called a 'lily pad'

Is Peridot valuable?

Moderate.

Typical retail prices

Cut gemstone$15–80per carat

Collector specimen$8–80each

Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.

What changes the price

Color: rich, pure grass-green without a brown tint is the top grade
Size: stones over a few carats get much more expensive, large clean ones are rare
Clarity: 'lily pad' inclusions are normal; eye-clean stones cost more
Origin: Pakistani and Myanmar material is prized; Arizona stones are mostly small

Uses

Jewelry

Care

Soft for a gem and can scratch or chip. Avoid acids and sudden temperature changes.

Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.

Updated October 2026

🔍How to identify Peridot

👯Often confused with

🧪Real or fake?

💰Is Peridot valuable?