Olivine vs. Peridot — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 6, 2024
Olivine is a mineral group primarily composed of forsterite and fayalite, while peridot is the gem-quality variety of forsterite, specifically valued for its green color.
Difference Between Olivine and Peridot
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Olivine is a common silicate mineral found in Earth's mantle, and is composed of magnesium iron silicate, while peridot is a type of olivine that is gem-quality and used in jewelry due to its striking green hue.
Olivine forms under high temperature and pressure conditions in the mantle and is often brought to the surface by volcanic activity, whereas peridot, being essentially the same mineral, is often found in lava and meteorites, prized for its clarity and color when cut and polished.
The color of olivine ranges from olive to brownish-green depending on its iron content, whereas peridot is highly sought after for its vibrant, bright green shades which are due to lesser iron content and higher magnesium presence.
Olivine has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale making it relatively hard, but it is still susceptible to weathering and is not commonly used in jewelry, while peridot, though the same in hardness, is often treated or cut in ways that enhance its appearance and durability for ornaments.
Olivine is used for a variety of scientific and industrial applications, including as a refractory material, whereas peridot's use is mainly aesthetic, serving as a popular gemstone for various types of jewelry.
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Comparison Chart
Composition
Magnesium iron silicate
Same, but gem-quality
Color
Olive to brownish-green
Vibrant, bright green
Common Uses
Industrial applications, scientific research
Jewelry
Hardness on Mohs Scale
6.5 to 7
6.5 to 7
Formation
Mantle, via high temperature and pressure
Often in lava flows and meteorites
Compare with Definitions
Olivine
A mineral susceptible to weathering in Earth's surface conditions.
Despite its abundance, olivine weathers quickly when exposed to water.
Peridot
A gemstone variety of the mineral olivine.
Peridot is prized for its unique green color in the gemstone market.
Olivine
A silicate mineral consisting of magnesium iron silicate.
Olivine is commonly found in Earth's mantle and is a major component of basalt.
Peridot
Known for its bright, vibrant green hue.
Peridot's appealing green shade comes from its iron and magnesium content.
Olivine
Not commonly used in jewelry due to its properties.
Olivine's softness relative to other gemstones limits its use in fine jewelry.
Peridot
Commonly used in jewelry.
Peridot is often set in rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Olivine
A greenish mineral, varying in color based on iron content.
The color of olivine can range from yellow to olive green.
Peridot
Found in lava flows and sometimes in meteorites.
Some peridot gems have extraterrestrial origins, having been found in meteorites.
Olivine
A mineral used primarily for industrial applications.
Olivine is utilized in foundries due to its high melting point.
Peridot
Cut and treated to enhance aesthetic qualities.
Peridot stones are carefully faceted to maximize their sparkle and color.
Olivine
The mineral olivine () is a magnesium iron silicate with the chemical formula (Mg2+, Fe2+)2SiO4. It is a type of nesosilicate or orthosilicate.
Peridot
Peridot ( PERR-ih-dot, -doh), sometimes called chrysolite, is gem-quality olivine and a silicate mineral with the formula of (Mg, Fe)2SiO4. As peridot is a magnesium-rich variety of olivine (forsterite), the formula approaches Mg2SiO4.
Olivine
A mineral silicate of iron and magnesium, principally (Mg, Fe)2SiO4, found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and used as a structural material in refractories and in cements. Also called chrysolite.
Peridot
A yellowish-green variety of olivine used as a gem.
Olivine
Any of a group of olive green magnesium-iron silicate minerals that crystallize in the orthorhombic system.
Peridot
A transparent olive-green form of olivine, used as a gem.
Olivine
A common name of the yellowish green mineral chrysolite, esp. the variety found in eruptive rocks. It is a silicate of magnesium and iron ((Mg,Fe)SiO4).
Peridot
A yellow-green colour, like that of the peridot.
Olivine
A mineral consisting of magnesium iron silicate; a source of magnesium
Peridot
Chrysolite.
Peridot
A pale green variety of chrysolite; used as a gemstone
Common Curiosities
What are the typical uses of olivine?
Typical uses of olivine include as a refractory material and in scientific research.
What causes the green color in peridot?
The green color in peridot is due to its iron and magnesium content.
How does peridot differ from general olivine in terms of use?
Peridot is specifically used as a gemstone in jewelry, whereas olivine has broader industrial and scientific applications.
What is the range of colors for olivine?
Olivine's colors range from olive to brownish-green.
What is the significance of peridot's color?
Peridot's vibrant green color is highly valued in the gemstone market for its aesthetic appeal.
Where can peridot typically be found aside from meteorites?
Peridot is often found in lava flows.
What is olivine primarily composed of?
Olivine is composed of magnesium iron silicate.
Where is olivine most commonly found?
Olivine is commonly found in Earth's mantle and is often brought to the surface by volcanic activity.
What factors affect the color variation in olivine?
The iron content in olivine affects its color variation, with higher iron content producing darker colors.
Is peridot ever synthetic or always natural?
Peridot is generally natural, but synthetic versions can be produced for research and decorative purposes.
How hard is peridot compared to other gemstones?
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, similar to quartz.
Can peridot be found in meteorites?
Yes, peridot can be found in some meteorites.
Is peridot treated in any way?
Peridot can be treated or cut to enhance its appearance and durability.
How is olivine relevant to geological studies?
Olivine is studied in geology for insights into the mantle's composition and the processes of magmatic differentiation.
Why is olivine not commonly used in jewelry?
Olivine is susceptible to weathering and is softer compared to more popular gemstones like diamonds.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
