FORSTERITE, variety Peridot
Mg₂SiO₄
Zabargad, Red Sea, Egypt

A tiny island in the Red Sea has been the source of fine perdot since ancient times. The Romans called the island Topazios, although topaz later came to refer to an entirely different gem. During the Crusades the name St. John's Island came into use. Today the Island is called Zabargad, Arabic for peridot.

Size / Weight: 31x28x19mm / 122 carats

Acquired: 1957 donation from William E. Phillips.

Disposition: On display in the Hixon Gem Vault exhibit.

Catalog Number: 8101