mineral

Olivine (Peridot)

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

Hardness: 6.5–7 Mohs; Color: Olive-green, yellow-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2–4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Olive-green, yellow-green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 Mohs; Color: Olive-green, yellow-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2–4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed deep in the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Often found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks like basalt, gabbro, and peridotite.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone (Peridot) in jewelry. Industrial uses include refractory sand for casting and as a flux in steel making.

Geological facts

Olivine is one of the most common minerals in the Earth, making up much of the upper mantle. It has also been discovered in meteorites and on the moon and Mars.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive olive-green color and glassy appearance. Common in volcanic regions with basaltic lava flows. Look for small, glassy grains in dark igneous rocks.

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