XL 4" Natural Emerald Peridot Crystal Minerals On Volcanic Rock Gila, Arizona
Location: Gila, Arizona
Weight: 14.7 Ounces
Dimensions: 4 Inches Long, 2.9 Inches Wide, 2 Inches Thick
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Peridot, the gem variety of the mineral olivine, is found in several locations across Arizona, with Gila County being a prominent area for its extraction. The most famous site is Peridot Mesa, located on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, east of Globe, Arizona. This mesa is recognized as one of the most significant sources of peridot in the United States.
The peridot at Peridot Mesa occurs within basalt flows as individual grains and aggregates. The basalt layers are about 3 to 35 meters thick, and the peridot grains typically range from 6 to 13 millimeters in size. Peridot Mesa itself is a remnant of a dormant volcano, adding geological significance to the site.
Mining on Peridot Mesa is restricted to members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, and a tribal recreation permit is required to visit. Permits can be obtained at the San Carlos Apache Recreation and Wildlife Department office, located off Highway 70, east of Globe. The tribe has been mining peridot in the area for over 50 years, supporting the local economy and preserving cultural traditions.
In addition to its gemstone resources, Peridot Mesa is known for its natural beauty, particularly the spring wildflowers, including vibrant Mexican goldpoppies. The nearby town of Peridot, Arizona, is situated within the reservation, highlighting the region’s long-standing connection to peridot mining.
