mineral

Peridot

Olivine (Magnesium Iron Silicate), (Mg, Fe)2SiO4

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs); Color: Olive-green, lime-green, yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2–3.4.

Hardness: 6
Color: Olive-green, lime-green, yellowish-green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7.0 (Mohs); Color: Olive-green, lime-green, yellowish-green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 3.2–3.4.

Formation & geological history

Formed deep in the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by tectonic or volcanic activity. It is also found in pallasite meteorites from outer space.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (birthstone for August). Historically used in amulets and talismans.

Geological facts

Peridot is one of the only gemstones that comes in only one color: green. Large specimens were historically often confused with emeralds, such as the 'emeralds' in the Cologne Cathedral's Three Holy Kings shrine.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive lime-green color and strong double refraction. Commonly found in basaltic rocks, notably in Arizona (USA), Myanmar, Pakistan, and Egypt's St. John's Island.

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

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral