gemstone

Polished peridot (olivine) cabochon

Olivine, typically forsterite-rich: (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; yellowish green to olive-green color, vitreous luster, orthorhombic crystal structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.2–4.3. The smooth oval shape and reflective surface indicate a polished cabochon, possibly with internal fractures or inclusions.

Identified September 9, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Peridot forms in magnesium- and iron-rich igneous rocks such as basalt and peridotite, and occasionally in meteorites; gem-quality material commonly formed in the mantle and brought upward by volcanic activity. Major sources include Pakistan, Myanmar, China, Arizona, and Egypt.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone in rings, pendants, and cabochon jewelry; non-gem olivine is an important rock-forming mineral but has limited industrial use. Value depends strongly on saturation, clarity, size, and absence of fractures.

Geological facts

Peridot is the gem variety of olivine and is one of the few gemstones occurring in only a narrow green color range. Its green color results mainly from iron within the crystal structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its distinctive olive-green color, glassy luster, relatively high density, and lack of quartz-like conchoidal fracture; distinguish it from green glass by hardness and refractive appearance. The image alone cannot confirm whether it is natural peridot, another green stone, or glass.