Zabargad Island

Egypt · Red Sea
Peridot from Zabargad Island, Egypt
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky · CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Zabargad (St John's Island) in the Egyptian Red Sea is the historic source of fine gem peridot, worked since antiquity.

About Zabargad Islandextended article

What it is known for

The Zabargad peridotite yields large, clean gem-green peridot (forsterite-rich olivine), the classic material of the ancient world.

What collectors look for

Large gemmy peridot crystals and cut stones are the prize; Zabargad provenance carries historic prestige.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Zabargad Island?

Zabargad Island is a mineral locality in Red Sea, Egypt.

What minerals are found at Zabargad Island?

Minerals from Zabargad Island include Peridot.

What is Zabargad Island known for?

Zabargad (St John's Island) in the Egyptian Red Sea is the historic source of fine gem peridot, worked since antiquity.

References & databases

Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database.