mineral
Peridot (Olivine)
Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4
Color: Olive green to lime green; Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Olive green to lime green
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Color: Olive green to lime green; Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; 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. Unlike most gems formed in the crust, peridot crystallizes in magma at very high temperatures. It is also found in Pallasite meteorites.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, especially for August birthstones. Also collected as mineral specimens. High-magnesium olivine (forsterite) is used in industrial processes as a refractory material.
Geological facts
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color: green. Small crystals are often found in volcanic basalt, known as 'Pele's tears' in Hawaiian folklore. It has been found in stardust brought back from space and in meteorites.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive yellowish-green color and glassy appearance. In the field, look for it as small grains within dark volcanic rocks like basalt. Common locations include Arizona (USA), Pakistan, Myanmar, and volcanic islands like Hawaii.
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