Peridot

Physical Properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Lime, olive, 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 pallasite meteorites. It is an igneous primary mineral.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry. It is the birthstone for August. Also used as a geological indicator of mantle processes.

Geological Facts

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color. It has been found in meteorites and on Mars. Ancient Egyptians called it the 'gem of the sun'.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its distinctive oily green color and strong double refraction. Commonly found in basaltic rocks, San Carlos Apache Reservation (Arizona), and Pakistan.

Identified on: 4/14/2026

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