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Olivine  (Forsterite (Mg) and Fayalite (Fe))Mg2SiO4 - Fe2SiO4

Class: Silicate
Subclass: Nesosilicate
Hardness: 6.5 - 7
Density: 3.3 - 4.3
Streak: Colourless
Lustre: Vitreous
Habit: Granular
Colours: Pistachio green, greenish yellow brown

  Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Cleavage: Imperfect
Fracture: Conchoidal
Magnetism: None
Reaction with HCl: Very weak

Identification in hand sample:
Pistachio-green colour and granular habit.

Associations:
Mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks. Associated with Ca-plag,

Industrial / ecomonic uses:
Peridote (a translucent variety of olivine) is considered a 'gem' mineral. Also used as a refractory sand and infrequently as an abrasive.

Comments:
Complete solid solution exists between the magnesium-rich end member (Forsterite, Mg2SiO4) and the iron-rich end member (Fayalite, Fe2SiO4).

  

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