About Forsterite
The magnesium-rich endmember of the Olivine group (Peridot is the gem variety, typically forsterite-rich). It's associated with heart healing, compassion, stress reduction, and promoting a positive outlook.
Primary Hues
Colorless, White, Pale Yellow, Greenish
Geological & Scientific Details
Forsterite is classified as a nesosilicates mineral which typically crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. Its chemical formula is Magnesium silicate (Mg2SiO4). Common crystal habits include dipyramidal prisms often tabular, commonly granular or compact massive.
Key Geological Properties:
- Mineral Category: Nesosilicates
- Chemical Formula: Magnesium silicate (Mg2SiO4)
- IMA Symbol: Fo[1]
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Formula Mass (g/mol): 140.691 g·mol−1
- Predominant Geological Color: Colorless, green, yellow, yellow green, white
- Crystal Habit: Dipyramidal prisms often tabular, commonly granular or compact massive
- Twinning: On {100}, {011} and {012}
- Cleavage: Perfect on {010} imperfect on {100}
- Luster: Vitreous
- Streak: White
- Diaphaneity: Transparent to translucent