mineral
Peridot (Olivine)
Olivine ((Mg, Fe)2SiO4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Olive-green to lime green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Olive-green to lime green
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Olive-green to lime green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity or found in meteorites; typically found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks like basalt and peridotite.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry; also used in industrial processes as a refractory material or as a slag conditioner in steelmaking.
Geological facts
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color: olive-green. It has been found in pallasite meteorites, meaning it literally comes from outer space in some instances.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive bottle-green color and lack of cleavage. Often found in volcanic 'bombs' or as small grains in basaltic sand. Common locations include Arizona, Hawaii, and Pakistan.
