mineral

Peridot (Olivine)

Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs), Color: Olive-green to lime-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific gravity: 3.27–3.37

Hardness: 6

Identified June 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs), Color: Olive-green to lime-green, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal structure: Orthorhombic, Cleavage: Poor, Specific gravity: 3.27–3.37

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. It is found in ultramafic igneous rocks like basalt and peridotite, often in nodules or as individual grains. Some specimens are even found in pallasite meteorites.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry as a gemstone (the birthstone for August). It is also studied by geologists to understand the composition of the Earth's mantle.

Geological facts

Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color. While most minerals are found in the crust, peridot is formed under extreme pressure in the mantle. Famous ancient deposits were found on St. John's Island in the Red Sea.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive yellowish-green color and glassy appearance. In the field, look for small green grains within dark basaltic rocks. Common locations include Arizona (USA), Pakistan, Myanmar, and volcanic regions worldwide.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic