mineral
Peridot
Olivine ((Mg, Fe)2SiO4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Olive-green to lime-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Olive-green to lime-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal system: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 3.2-4.3
Formation & geological history
Formed deep in the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity; occasionally found in Pallasite meteorites from space.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (birthstone for August) and as a source of magnesium in industrial processes.
Geological facts
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color. It has been found in meteorites and on the planet Mars.
Field identification & locations
Look for a distinct yellowish-green color and 'lily pad' inclusions under magnification. Often found in basaltic rocks and volcanic sands.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous