Olivine
| Colour | Green |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 6.5–7.0 |
| Lustre | Vitreous |
| Streak | colorless or white |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | Poor |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 3.2–4.5 |
What is Olivine?
The mineral olivine is a magnesium iron silicate with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. It is a type of nesosilicate or orthosilicate. The primary component of the Earth's upper mantle, it is a common mineral in Earth's subsurface, but weathers quickly on the surface. Olivine has many uses, such as the gemstone peridot, as well as industrial applications like metalworking processes.
How to identify Olivine
- Lustre: Vitreous.
- Hardness: Mohs 6.5–7.0 — about as hard as a steel knife.
- Streak: colorless or white.
- Habit: Orthorhombic crystal system.
Olivine in different forms
Stones often confused with Olivine
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Olivine?
Olivine is Mohs 6.5–7.0 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Olivine?
Olivine is typically green (Yellow to yellow-green).