A class of orthosilicate (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 ranging between the end members forsterite (Mg2SiO4) and
fayalite (FeSiO4) (both of which are extremely rare in pure form), and therefore range from colorless Mg2SiO4 to green (MgFe)SiO4 to brown Fe2SiO4. Olivines are most commonly found in basalts. Most olivines are 10-12% Fe. The best are found in Burma, and the second best in Peridot,
Arizona.
SiO4) (both of which are extremely rare in pure form), and therefore range from colorless Mg2SiO4 to green (Mg
Fe
)SiO4 to brown Fe2SiO4. Olivines are most commonly found in basalts. Most olivines are 10-12% Fe. The best are found in Burma, and the second best in Peridot,
Arizona.
)