mineral

Peridot (Olivine)

Olivine ((Mg, Fe)2SiO4)

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Olive green, lime green, or yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3

Hardness: 6
Color: Olive green, lime green, or yellowish-green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Olive green, lime green, or yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity inside basaltic rocks. It is also found in pallasite meteorites.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (the birthstone for August) and by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color: green. Some specimens have been found in meteorites, making it one of the few gems known to exist outside of Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct oily green color and its occurrence in volcanic basalt. High-quality specimens are found in Arizona, Pakistan, and Myanmar. Common in basaltic riverbeds.