igneous
Peridotite (Dunite / Olivine Xenolith)
Peridotite (predominantly (Mg,Fe)2SiO4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6.5–7; olive-green to yellowish-green with dark specks; vitreous to granular luster; orthorhombic granular aggregate; specific gravity ~3.2–3.4.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6.5–7; olive-green to yellowish-green with dark specks; vitreous to granular luster; orthorhombic granular aggregate; specific gravity ~3.2–3.4.
Formation & geological history
Formed in Earth's upper mantle through slow crystallization of ultramafic magma, often brought to the surface as mantle xenoliths within basaltic eruptions.
Uses & applications
Source of peridot gemstones, host rock for chromium and diamond deposits, and studied extensively in scientific mantle research.
Geological facts
Peridotite constitutes the vast majority of Earth's upper mantle down to a depth of about 400 kilometers.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its granular, sugary texture composed primarily of vitreous olive-green olivine crystals; commonly found in volcanic fields, ophiolites, and basalt flows.
