3.68 Ct. Peridot from Afghanistan

This is a transparent, natural peridot of 3.68 carat, presented in a fancy shape that measures 12.00 by 8.06 by 6.38 millimeters, with a mixed brilliant cut, medium intense yellowish green color intensity, and an excellent polish. The gem is untreated, with no enhancement, and its stated origin is Afghanistan. At The Natural Gemstone Company we select stones by microscope and by eye to ensure the proportions and finish are optimized for light return and color, and this peridot exemplifies that approach. The combination of a larger carat weight and a lively, saturated yellowish green makes it suitable for a significant ring or a prominent pendant, and its mixed brilliant cutting style adds a measured balance between scintillation and color retention.

Clarity has been evaluated at eye level as very slightly included, which in practical terms means small, localized inclusions that do not materially interrupt transparency or the passage of light when the stone is mounted. Under magnification the inclusions are minor and stable, they pose no concern for durability, and they do not diminish the overall visual impact. From a gemological perspective peridot is an orthorhombic mineral with a refractive index generally in the range of 1.654 to 1.690, and a birefringence around 0.036, which can contribute to a subtle doubling effect on facet edges in some orientations. Specific gravity typically ranges near 3.2 to 3.4, and Mohs hardness is approximately 6.5 to 7, so care in setting and wear should be considered to protect the stone from sharp impacts and prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

The mixed brilliant cut used for this peridot is aimed at maximizing light return while preserving color saturation. The brilliant style facets on the crown work with carefully proportioned pavilion facets to generate lively scintillation, while the mixed facet arrangement helps avoid excess windowing that can wash out the yellowish green. When comparing brilliance to more common gemstones, the physics are instructive. Diamond, with a refractive index near 2.417 and a dispersion value near 0.044, produces exceptional fire and brilliance, characteristics that peridot cannot match in pure dispersion, but peridot compensates with a vivid, singular hue and strong reflectivity when well cut. Emerald, as a variety of beryl with typical refractive index near 1.58, often has deep color but a softer brilliance due to common inclusions and oil treatments, so a clean peridot will appear more lively in head to head viewing. Compared to green garnets such as tsavorite, which can show higher refractive index and more pronounced fire, this peridot offers a distinctive yellowish green tone that is less common and highly desirable for collectors seeking that specific chroma.

For the educated buyer the value proposition rests on a few concrete factors. The weight of 3.68 carat in a clean, transparent peridot of medium intense color is uncommon in available supply, particularly from Afghanistan, a source known to produce well saturated peridot specimens. The absence of enhancements adds to market value, since natural, untreated gems are preferred for both investment and fine jewelry. The excellent polish and the precision of the mixed brilliant faceting optimize both brilliance and color uniformity, enhancing perceived size and presence on the finger or in a pendant. Given the practical hardness and the clarity grade, this stone performs well for everyday wear in protective settings, and it responds best to cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding extreme heat and harsh chemicals that could stress the stone or its mounting.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we stand behind the descriptive and technical points provided, and we can supply additional imagery and documentation on request. This 3.68 carat yellowish green peridot, with its 12.00 by 8.06 by 6.38 millimeter dimensions, mixed brilliant cut, very slightly included clarity at eye level, medium intense color, excellent polish, no enhancement, and Afghan origin, is representative of the natural and untreated gems that discerning buyers seek. If you would like further information regarding suitability for a specific setting, comparative analysis against other green gemstones, or provenance documentation, our gemological team is available to assist.