mineral

Peridot (Gem-quality Olivine)

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

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Lime, olive, or yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.2–4.3

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

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Lime, olive, or yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.2–4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity (basaltic rocks), or found in pallasite meteorites. It is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry as a gemstone. It is the birthstone for August and is also used as a minor industrial abrasive when in its lower-grade olivine form.

Geological facts

Ancient Egyptians called Peridot the 'gem of the sun.' It is unique because it is one of the only gemstones found in meteorites, meaning some specimens are literally of extraterrestrial origin.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'olive' green color and lack of reaction to acid. Commonly found in volcanic areas like San Carlos Apache Reservation (Arizona), Hawaii, Norway, and Pakistan.

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