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Well known as the birthstone for August, Peridot is a stunning green stone. For thousands of years, this stone has been popular. In fact, the Egyptians called peridot the stone of the sun. It’s even been confused for emerald.
However, unlike emerald, it doesn’t cost a lot of money. When buying Peridot there are a number of things to consider, but one of the biggest is clarity. So, what should you as a customer know about this? We’ll discuss Peridot clarity in this article.
Gemologists refer to Peridot as olivine, which is an iron magnesium silicate. Because it always contains iron, Peridot only comes in green, although there’s still variation in Peridot color. In particular, the finest Peridot is a slightly yellowed green known as “Peridot green.” In addition, this is a gemstone that tends to have a high clarity grade.
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While most of us wouldn’t think of making Peridot jewelry with an uncut stone, this process is one of the ways in which we can improve clarity. Probably the biggest reason that this works is that parts of the rough Peridot that have inclusions can be cut away. So, before a Peridot crystal reaches the market, it’s usually cut. There are three main methods: step cuts, brilliant cuts, and cabochons.
Step cuts are faceted cutting styles. Their distinctive feature are facets that are either square or rectangular. One of the biggest reasons gem cutters select a step cut is that they showcase the color and clarity of a Peridot gemstone. You can easily look through the cut gem and see its lovely color without seeing inclusions.
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Unlike step cuts, a brilliant cut peridot gemstone has curved lines and kite or triangular facets. Gem cutters choose a brilliant cut when they want to showcase the brilliance and fire of a gemstone, and this is one reason brilliant cuts are so popular with diamonds.
By far the most popular brilliant cut is the round brilliant. Those who are looking for a Peridot engagement ring should consider this one because it's such a classic option. Other brilliant cuts include the oval, princess (rounded square), marquise (sharp-pointed oval), pear, and heart.
When a peridot crystal isn’t as clear, or when an artistic look is desired, the gem cutter may make a cabochon. This is basically a domed shape, usually a circle or oval. Rough peridot is shaped, then polished to a bright shine. In this case, the object is to show off a pretty color or interesting patterning as a result of inclusions.
Once a Peridot gemstone has been cut and polished, it is ready to be graded. The finest Peridot is AAAA, characterized by the signature Peridot green color and extra high clarity. This grade is very rare and valuable, so it’s only used at high end jewelers.
AAA is the next-best choice. Although eye clean, AAA Peridot might leave a little to be desired on the color, or it might have been treated.
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AA and B grade Peridot are used for lower quality jewelry or as cabochons and beads. When grading Peridot, the color is more important than the clarity.
At With Clarity, we use AAA grade Peridot. Keep in mind however, that it may have been heat treated. Heat treating is a natural treatment used to improve the color, clarity, or both. This is done before cutting, and treated stones are real. Lab grown Peridot can be found on the market, but we sell Peridot gold rings made with natural stones. Looking for a Peridot and diamond ring? Give us a call, and we’ll help you choose the perfect style.
Contact us by phone at 1(844)-234-6463 or email at [email protected]. Our Live Chat is available during business hours Monday - Friday, 10AM - 6PM ET.
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Yes, it’s normal for peridots to have inclusions. The most common ones include black specks, needles, feathers, and etch channels.
When buying peridots, it’s important to check for inclusions. Good quality peridots are eye clean with no visible inclusions. Also, pay attention to the color and avoid buying stones that look dull. Always opt for peridots with a bright and vivid green color.
AAAA quality grade peridots are the best. They’re characterized by intense green color and high clarity.
The best quality peridots display a bright olive-green hue that is devoid of any brown or yellow undertones.