Peridot vs. Moldavite: A Comparison of Two Popular Gemstones

Gemstones have always been prized for their beauty, rarity, and spiritual properties. From diamonds to rubies, sapphires to emeralds, there is no shortage of precious stones that captivate our attention. Two such gemstones that have gained popularity in recent times are peridot and moldavite. While they may look similar at first glance, they are actually quite different in terms of their origin, properties, and uses.

What are Peridot and Moldavite?

Peridot

Peridot is a green-colored gemstone belonging to the olivine mineral group. It is also known as chrysolite and is formed deep within the earth’s mantle. Peridot’s color ranges from yellow-green to olive-green, and it has a vitreous luster. It is a relatively hard gemstone, ranking 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

Peridot is found in many countries, including the United States, China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. The most prized peridot stones are those found in the mountains of Pakistan, which have a unique yellow-green hue.

Moldavite

Moldavite, on the other hand, is a greenish-gray, glassy mineral that is formed from meteorite impact. It is believed to have originated from a meteorite that struck the earth around 15 million years ago. Moldavite is found in the Czech Republic and is considered a rare gemstone.

Moldavite has a unique appearance due to its formation from a meteorite impact. It has a greenish-gray color and a pitted surface, giving it a distinct texture. Moldavite is relatively soft, ranking only 5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

Uses in Jewelry

Peridot

Peridot is a popular gemstone used in jewelry making. It is often used in wholesale necklaces, wholesale earrings, bracelets, and wholesale crystal rings. The stone’s bright green color makes it an excellent choice for summer jewelry, and it pairs well with both gold and silver. Peridot is also the birthstone for August, making it a popular choice for those born in that month.

Moldavite

Moldavite is a rarer gemstone than peridot and is often used in more unique and creative jewelry pieces. It is often set in silver or gold and used in pendants, necklaces, and earrings. Some jewelers use moldavite to create one-of-a-kind pieces that are highly sought after by collectors.

Healing Properties

Peridot

Peridot is believed to have several healing properties. It is said to help with digestion, insomnia, and anxiety. Peridot is also believed to be a protective stone, guarding the wearer against negative emotions and energies. It is also believed to enhance creativity and self-confidence.

Moldavite

Moldavite is believed to have even stronger healing properties than peridot. It is said to activate the third eye chakra, enhancing spiritual awareness and facilitating communication with higher realms. It is also believed to help with emotional healing, stress, and anxiety. Moldavite is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to aid in spiritual growth and transformation.

Physical Differences

While peridot and moldavite may look similar to the untrained eye, there are several physical differences between the two gemstones.

Peridot is a harder stone than moldavite and is more resistant to scratches and wear. Peridot has a smooth, polished surface, while moldavite has a pitted, rough surface.

Peridot is also much more common than moldavite, and as a result, it is more affordable. Moldavite is a rare gemstone and can be significantly more expensive than peridot, especially for high-quality pieces.

Metaphysical Differences

In addition to their physical differences, peridot and moldavite also have different metaphysical properties.

Peridot is associated with the solar plexus chakra, which is located in the abdomen and is associated with personal power, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Peridot is said to help balance and heal the solar plexus chakra, promoting feelings of self-worth and empowerment.

Moldavite, on the other hand, is associated with the third eye chakra, which is located between the eyebrows and is associated with intuition, spiritual awareness, and psychic abilities. Moldavite is said to help open and activate the third eye chakra, promoting spiritual growth and intuition.

Which One to Choose?

Both peridot and moldavite have their unique properties and are great choices for jewelry and spiritual practices. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a more affordable gemstone that still has beautiful color and healing properties, peridot is a great choice. It’s also a popular choice for those born in August, as it is their birthstone.

If you’re looking for a more unique and rare gemstone with strong spiritual properties, moldavite may be the right choice for you. It is highly sought after by collectors and is a popular choice for spiritual practices.

Conclusion

Peridot and moldavite are two beautiful gemstones with their own unique properties and uses. Peridot is a more affordable and common gemstone that is great for summer jewelry and has healing properties that promote personal power and self-confidence. Moldavite is a rare and unique gemstone with strong spiritual properties that can aid in spiritual growth and transformation.

Whether you choose peridot or moldavite, both gemstones have their own beauty and properties that can enhance your life in many ways.