Olivine

Olivine is a very popular mineral series composed of magnesium iron silicate. ^[1]

Olivine: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Olivine:

• Transparency: Olivine can be translucent or transparent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, olivine is orthorhombic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, olivine is vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Olivine streaks colorless.
• Specific Gravity: Olivine's specific gravity ranges from 3.2 to 3.4.

Olivine: Background and Summary

Olivine is a common mineral found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is a silicate mineral that is made up of magnesium, iron, and silica. Olivine is usually green in color and has a glassy luster. It is a relatively hard mineral, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it a popular choice for use in jewelry.

To identify olivine, one can look for its green color and glassy luster. It is often found in igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro, as well as in some metamorphic rocks. In thin sections under a microscope, olivine can be identified by its distinctive cleavage patterns and its refractive index.

Olivine has a variety of uses in industry and in everyday life. It is commonly used as a refractory material, as it can withstand high temperatures and is resistant to erosion. Olivine is also used as a foundry sand, as it has a high melting point and can be easily molded. In addition, olivine is used in the manufacture of ceramics, glass, and cement.