igneous
Peridotite
Ultramafic igneous rock (primarily olivine and pyroxene)
Hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, colors typically range from olive green to dark green or brownish-green, vitreous to dull luster, granular to massive crystal structure, poor cleavage, specific gravity around 3.2-3.4
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, colors typically range from olive green to dark green or brownish-green, vitreous to dull luster, granular to massive crystal structure, poor cleavage, specific gravity around 3.2-3.4
Formation & geological history
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle through the slow cooling and crystallization of ultramafic magma or as accumulations of mantle minerals. Associated with tectonic plate boundaries and ophiolite sequences.
Uses & applications
Primarily of scientific interest for understanding Earth's mantle composition; source rock for gemstones like peridot; occasionally used in crushed stone or decorative aggregates.
Geological facts
Peridotite is the most abundant rock type in the Earth's upper mantle. When altered by hydrothermal fluids, it can transform into serpentinite.
Field identification & locations
Found in ophiolite complexes, mantle xenoliths in basalt, and major alpine mountain belts. Key indicator for mantle-derived geology.
