mineral

Olivine (Peridot)

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

Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale; Color: Olive-green, yellow-green, or brownish; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.27–4.37.

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

Identified February 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale; Color: Olive-green, yellow-green, or brownish; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.27–4.37.

Formation & geological history

Formed in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks, often in the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by tectonic or volcanic activity. It is also found in pallasite meteorites and lunar basalt. Some deposits are billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Gem-quality specimens (Peridot) are used in jewelry. Industrial-grade olivine is used as a refractory material, a flux for steel production, and in sandblasting.

Geological facts

Olivine is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust by volume, yet large, clear crystals are rare. It is also known as the 'Evening Emerald' because its green color remains vibrant even under artificial light.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct olive-green color and glassy luster. Commonly found in basaltic lava flows and as 'xenoliths' (nodules) in volcanic rocks. Significant locations include San Carlos Apache Reservation (Arizona), Hawaii (Green Sand Beach), and Norway.

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