Mineral

Peridot

Olivine (Magnesium Iron Silicate - (Mg, Fe)2SiO4)

Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale; Color: Lime green, olive green, or yellowish green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.27–3.37.

Hardness: 6
Color: Lime green, olive green, or yellowish green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale; Color: Lime green, olive green, or yellowish green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.27–3.37.

Formation & geological history

Formed deep in the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity; also found in rare pallasite meteorites. It is an early-crystallizing mineral in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry. It is also the birthstone for August. Industrial-grade olivine is used in sandblasting and as a flux in steel making.

Geological facts

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color. Some specimens are extra-terrestrial, found within meteorites that crashed to Earth. Ancient Egyptians called it the 'gem of the sun.'

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct olive-green color, glassy luster, and lack of reaction to acid. It is commonly found in basaltic rocks and volcanic sands, such as those in Hawaii or Arizona.

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