igneous
Peridotite (Dunite)
Olivine-rich Peridotite ((Mg,Fe)2SiO4)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive-green to yellowish-green, Luster: Vitreous to oily, Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, specific gravity: 3.2-4.5
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Olive-green to yellowish-green, Luster: Vitreous to oily, Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, specific gravity: 3.2-4.5
Formation & geological history
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle through fractional crystallization of mafic magma. These ultramafic rocks are brought to the surface via tectonic uplift or volcanic eruptions as xenoliths.
Uses & applications
Primary source of the gemstone peridot; also used in industrial processes as a flux in steelmaking and for CO2 sequestration research.
Geological facts
Peridotite is the main component of the Earth's upper mantle. This specific yellowish-green translucent variety is primarily composed of the mineral olivine.
Field identification & locations
The coordinates provided (37.2°N, 27.5°E) are near the Muğla province in Turkey, a region famous for its ophiolite complexes containing significant deposits of ultramafic rocks like peridotite and chromite.
