Peridot is one of the very few gemstones that only occur in one distinct colour, although the intensity of the naturally occurring green is subject to variation, creating paler lime tints up to a darker olive tone.
Totally unique in its lime green colour Peridot has a certain exotic nature that works perfectly in Jewellery. First introduced to Europe by crusaders returning from the Middle East, Catherine loves the vibrancy in the colour which gives a great alternative to other green gemstones. Peridot, formerly called Olivine, also has a very clean appearance; the clarity in the stone is wonderful.
Catherine particularly enjoys Peridot, the birthstone for August, in yellow metals due to the warmth the combination brings. She also feels this ancient gemstone, forgotten for over 3500 years until 1900, is a great accompaniment when set with Mandarin Garnets too.