igneous
Peridotite
Peridotite (primarily Olivine and Pyroxene)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive green to greenish-brown, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (as olivine), Specific gravity: 3.2-4.4
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive green to greenish-brown, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Orthorhombic (as olivine), Specific gravity: 3.2-4.4
Formation & geological history
Formed in the Earth's upper mantle through slow cooling of magma at high temperatures and pressures; typically brought to the surface via tectonic or volcanic activity.
Uses & applications
Primary source of the gemstone peridot; also used in carbon sequestration research and as a refractory material.
Geological facts
Peridotite is the dominant rock type of the Earth's upper mantle and is rarely found at the surface unless thrust up by mountain-building processes.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic olive-green color and coarse-grained ultramafic texture. Common in ophiolite complexes and as xenoliths in basalt.
