12 Tips on How to Buy a Peridot
August 17th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG
7.56 ct Gem Burma Peridot
Peridot is a beautiful lively gemstone that can be quite affordable. It’s an easy gem to buy because what you see is what you get and there are lots of great Peridot gems to choose from. Here are some tips that show how a professional gem trader buys.
First, we just look at the gem face up to get a first impression– do we like the stone or not? Is it something we could consider? Then, if the stone is worthy, we analyse the stone sytematically and consider each of the 4 C’s individually.
Color
At first glance, the bright celery green colors of peridot are not everyone’s cup of tea, but they really grow on you, especially when you see a good peridot in a flattering mounting. The gem is even more appealing when you realize there is lots of bang for the buck.
Peridot colors range from very light greenish yellows to medium yellowish green. Choose the color that appeals to you the most.
Tip #1–the lighter more chartreusey stones are the least expensive. The more green the color, the more valuable. Any brownish tones are undesirable
Tip #2– The larger the stone, the darker and richer the color can be.
Tip #3– Since there is good supply of quality peridot, it’s relatively easy to find great matched pairs for earrings without having to pay a premium for matching.
Tip #4– Peridot colors are more beautiful in romantic settings, like candle light– that’s why its called the “Evening Emerald”.
Clarity
The good news is that most Peridot crystals are relatively pure and free from inclusions. As long as the stone has nothing in it’s face up appearance that is distracting from it’s beauty, it can be a good choice.
Tip #5– Some peridots have a sleepy appearance because of inclusions or cutting orientation. Choose a bright crisp looking stone unless you prefer the softer look.
Tip #6– Peridot is somewhat brittle gem, so avoid stones with cracks, chips or facet abrasions. Ring settings should protect the top of the stone.
Cut
Peridot has the ability to capture light efficiently, so look for a gem that is lively and sparkly.
Tip #7– Since there is lots of good material, avoid stones with cutting flaws like windows where you can see thru the stone in the center. Ask a Gemologist to help you choose the best cut.
Tip #8– Since Peridot is relatively inexpensive and available in large sizes, you can find really unusual designer cuts and a good variety of shapes.
from Pala Gems
Carat
Tip # 9– Peridot occurs naturally in good size so you don’t have to pay big premiums to get a nice big stone. If your tastes run to glam and gorgeous, but your pocketbook is not so thick, with Peridot, you can Go Big and not break the bank.
Burma and Pakistan are known for big stones that are especially beautiful
Sourcing and Treatments
Tip #10– Peridot is a gem found in many regions, so you can take your pick of sources– If you want to buy American, choose a stone from the San Carlos Reservation of Arizona.
Tip #11–Truly green, Peridot is one gem that is never treated or enhanced in any way, so you can be sure yours is totally natural, just as it was mined.
Most peridot mines are artisanal, so you’ll be supporting local communities and miners.
Price
Tip # 12–Great stones under one carat are available for $50 to $100. You buy an impressive ring stone of 3 or 4 carats for less than $500. Museum quality gems can go for $400 per carat– much less than the thousands per carat you pay for many other gems at the high end of quality.
Enjoy the thrill of picking your own personal Peridot and we’ll work with you to create a truly exciting piece of jewelry. Our team of Rare Gemstone Specialists and Custom Designers will locate and help you select the perfect gem. Stop by the shop or give us a call– we’re open Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 am to 5:30 pm.
Tags: Burma, Custom Jewelry, Pakistan, peridot, San Carlos Reservation
