Peridot semi precious gemstone beads

Peridot is one of the few gemstones available in only one color - green. However, peridot's unique green color can range from vivid and intense shades of yellowish-green to dark brownish-green. Peridot belongs to the olivine series of minerals and is a magnesium-rich gemstone-quality variety of forsterite. Peridot is a rare example of an idiochromatic gemstone. Idiochromatic gemstones are unique in that their color comes from their basic chemical composition, rather than through traces of minor impurities such as iron or chromium. Interestingly, green peridot is one of the oldest known gemstones with records dating back as early as 1500 BC. Peridot's hardness is comparable to quartz and it is generally affordable. It is also often available in reasonably large sizes, making it a wonderful green semi precious gemstone beads choice for jewelry design.