gemstone

Peridot (Olivine)

Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg,Fe)2SiO4

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6.5-7.0 on Mohs scale; light olive green to yellowish-green color; vitreous (glassy) luster; orthorhombic crystal system; indistinct cleavage; specific gravity 3.2-4.3; strong double refraction.

Identified July 22, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme heat and pressure, and brought to the surface by mantle xenoliths during volcanic activity. Also found in pallasite meteorites.

Uses & applications

Popular gemstone used widely in jewelry (rings, pendants, birthstone for August). Industrial-grade olivine is used as a slag conditioner, blast cleaning sand, and refractory material.

Geological facts

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color (green), though the shade depends on the percentage of iron present. Ancient Egyptians called it the 'gem of the sun' and mined it on the Red Sea island of Zabargad.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive olive-green color, glassy luster, and high double refraction (doubling of back facets under magnification). Commonly found in Arizona (San Carlos Reservation), Pakistan, Myanmar, Brazil, and Hawaii.