3.6" Natural Emerald Peridot And Chromium Crystals Minerals On Volcanic Rock Gila, AZ

Location: Gila, Arizona, San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation

Weight: 13.9 Ounces

Dimensions: 3.6 Inches Long, 3.1 Inches Wide, 2.2 Inches Thick 

The item pictured is the one you will receive.

The vivid green gemstone peridot has been mined in Arizona for over half a century, with Peridot Mesa in Gila County serving as the centerpiece of this industry. Located on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, this mesa is widely regarded as the primary source of American peridot and has helped establish Arizona as a key player in the global peridot market.

The gemstone-bearing rocks at Peridot Mesa were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions that carried olivine crystals from deep mantle regions to the surface. These crystals became preserved within basalt flows, where they now occur as individual grains and crystal aggregates. Over time, erosion and mining have exposed these peridot-rich layers, allowing for continued recovery of gem-quality material.

Mining rights and land access are managed entirely by the San Carlos Apache Tribe, ensuring that gemstone production remains under tribal authority. Entry to the area requires a recreation permit issued by the tribal Recreation and Wildlife Department along Highway 70 east of Globe. Typical crystal sizes fall between 6 and 13 millimeters, providing excellent rough for faceted gemstones. The nearby town of Peridot, Arizona, continues to benefit economically from this long-standing mining tradition, reflecting the deep connection between the community and its volcanic gemstone resources.