mineral
Olivine
Magnesium Iron Silicate ((Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄)
Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Olive-green to yellow-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.27–4.37.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Olive-green to yellow-green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Olive-green to yellow-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 3.27–4.37.
Formation & geological history
Formed in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks as a primary mineral. It is a major component of Earth's upper mantle and forms from cooling magma with high magnesium and iron content.
Uses & applications
Industrial use as a flux for steel production, refractory casting sand, and as the gemstone 'peridot' when of high quality.
Geological facts
Olivine is one of the most common minerals in the Earth by volume, but it weathers quickly on the surface. It is also frequently found in meteorites and has been detected on Mars.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive olive-green color and grainy, vitreous texture. Look for it in basaltic lava flows or as inclusions in xenoliths.
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Green Apatite on Albite
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