mineral

Olivine (Peridot)

Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg,Fe)2SiO4

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive-green to lime or brownish-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 3.27-4.37.

Hardness: 6

Identified June 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive-green to lime or brownish-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 3.27-4.37.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the Earth's upper mantle and brought to the surface by tectonic activity or volcanic eruptions. It is a primary mineral in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks like basalt and peridotite.

Uses & applications

Gem-quality specimens (Peridot) are used in jewelry. Industrial uses include sandblasting, furnace linings (refractory), and as an additive in steel production to remove impurities.

Geological facts

Olivine is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's subsurface and has been discovered in meteorites and on the Moon and Mars. It is also a key mineral in the study of Earth's mantle.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive olive-green color and glassy appearance. Often found as small, rounded grains in dark volcanic rocks like basalt. Found worldwide, notably in Arizona, Hawaii, Norway, and Myanmar.