Peridot Facet / Faceting Information

Peridot Facet / Faceting Information

Color: Yellow-green, apple-green, olive/green
Moh's Hardness: 6.5-7
Refractive Index: 1.654-1.69
Critical Angle: 37.31°
Specific Gravity: 3.27-3.37
Cleavage: Imperfect
Fracture: Brittle, small conchoidal
Dispersion: .02
Heat Sensitivity: Yes, in my experience
Dichroic: weak
Birefringence (double refraction): Medium (.036)
Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic

Treatments: Generally none, but can be oiled and/or opticoned, if so avoid it

What I prefer to polishing with: Alumina oxide on a Tin lap, I use vinegar also, I use it straight (no water), just a few drops of vinegar and polish…

Jeff's Comments: Peridot commonly has small black inclusions and "lily pads." Lily pads are difficult to see and cause many problems in faceting Peridot. They are flat round inclusions that act like cleavage planes when polishing, and have a silver like reflection. They can be very hard to find, Peridot is not a stone a beginner should cut or buy without expert advice.

Design Notes: About any Tourmaline, Topaz and Peridot design will work well. I prefer checker boards because they help hide the inclusions that are typical.

Design Links: Cornered - This is great for clear rough if you have a piece that will work…