Peridot beads are a transparent, green to yellowish Green gemstone that offers an unusual characteristic - Peridot is the only gemstone to have a ``lilly pad`` inclusion. One of the most beautiful green stones, Peridot is mined in Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Burma, Pakistan, Norway, and USA (Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico). Arizona is the largest Peridot producer but the finest quality Peridot comes from Pakistan. The deposit on Saint Johns Island in the Red Sea, mentioned by Pliny in his Natural History (AD 70), still produces fine gems. In fact, historians believe that Cleopatra`s famous Emerald`s were not Emeralds but were Peridots mined in Egypt. Peridot`s color comes from iron elements within the stone. When choosing Peridot you want to consider the depth of color, the cut of the stone, the relative lack of feathering or inclusions, (with the exception of the ``lilly pad`` inclusions which are prized) and the amount of yellow present in the hue as most collectors prefer the rich, slightly yellowish green color. To clean your gemstones simply use warm water, a mild soap and a soft cloth to clean then lay the strand on a flat moisture absorbing surface to dry. Because of Peridot`s hardness, ease of care and beauty - it is one of the best choices for a true green gemstone.