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| Peridot: Soothing Green |
With its jewelry roots traced back
more than 3500 years , this birthstone of August is recommended for
couples celebrating their 16th wedding anniversary.
Mined in North and South America , Europe and Asia Peridot is available
in a range of sizes , shapes and color hues , the finest stones having
a deep lime green color with no inclusions visible to the naked eye.
Because inclusions are quite common , clarity is an extremely important
factor when buying peridot. |
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The reason why peridot is more often used
as a side stone for more expensive gem is that it is relatively soft
(6.5 on the Mohs scale).
A ring mounted with peridot, therefore , should be spared rugged regular
wear.
It is also highly sensitive to rapid temperature changes and
can lose its polish if brought into contact with hydrochloric or sulphuric
acid.
Its appearance may be improved by occasional treatment with colorless
oil or wax, surface fractures sometimes filled with a colorless resin
that hardens.
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