mineral

Olivine (Peridot)

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

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs); Color: Olive-green to lime-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.27–4.37.

Hardness: 6
Color: Olive-green to lime-green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs); Color: Olive-green to lime-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.27–4.37.

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-temperature igneous environments, particularly in the Earth's upper mantle and brought to the surface by basaltic magmas or tectonic activity. Most commercial deposits range from 1 to 20 million years old, though some are much older.

Uses & applications

Gemstone (Peridot) for jewelry; industrial uses include refractory sand for metal casting, blast furnace lining, and as an additive in steel production.

Geological facts

Olivine is one of the primary components of the Earth's upper mantle and has been discovered in meteorites from Mars and the Moon, as well as in stardust collected by the Stardust spacecraft.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct translucent green color, lack of cleavage, and occurrence in basaltic rocks. Common locations include Norway, Hawaii (Papakōlea Beach), Arizona, and Myanmar.

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