Natural Peridot (Zabarjad) Stone in Pakistan

Pakistan's peridot

The discovery of large, clean peridot crystals in the mountains of Kohistan changed the world market for this gem. Pakistani peridot is admired for a bright, pure green with little brown, and it often comes in bigger clean sizes than material from many other sources. Peridot is also mined in places such as the United States, China and Myanmar, often in smaller or more yellowish-green stones. Where we know a stone's origin, the listing says so.

What peridot is

Peridot is gem-quality olivine, a magnesium-iron silicate that forms deep in the earth and reaches the surface through volcanic and mountain-building activity. Its colour comes from iron, so it only occurs in green, from yellowish to deep olive. It rates about 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.

Choosing a Zabarjad: quality pointers

• Colour - a vivid, pure green with only a hint of yellow is the most valued. Brownish or very yellow stones cost less.
• Clarity - fine peridot is usually eye-clean. Look for small disc-shaped inclusions known as "lily pads", which are natural but reduce value if visible.
• Cut - a well-proportioned cut brings out its oily, glowing lustre.
• Size - above a few carats, clean Kohistan-quality stones become much rarer and the per-carat rate rises.

Each listing's per-carat rate is price divided by carat weight.

A quick authenticity check

Peridot is strongly doubly refractive. Look through the top of a faceted stone with a 10x loupe and you will often see the back facet edges doubled, which glass cannot do. Green glass also tends to look flat and may show round bubbles. Green tourmaline and other green gems can resemble peridot, so a certificate of authenticity is available on request.

Beliefs and birthstone

Peridot is the August birthstone. Traditions differ on its planet: some South Asian astrologers link it with Mercury (Budh), sometimes as a substitute for emerald, while others connect it with the Sun. It is traditionally worn for well-being, positivity and fresh starts. These are beliefs rather than guaranteed outcomes.

Caring for peridot

Peridot is reasonably hard but can be damaged by sudden temperature changes and strong acids. Clean it with warm soapy water and avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.

Buying peridot from GemStore

We inspect every stone before listing it. Your order is dispatched within 1 to 2 working days by insured, tracked courier to any city in Pakistan, with a flat Rs. 500 delivery fee per order. Pay by Cash on Delivery after inspecting the stone, and return it unused within 7 days if you are not happy.