The name "olivine" comes from its olive-green color. The mineral was first described in 1790 by the German mineralogist Abraham Gottlob Werner, who named it after its characteristic color.

The name "olivine" is derived from the Latin word "oliva" meaning "olive". This is a direct reference to the olive-green hue that is often seen in olivine crystals.

However, it's important to note that olivine can also be found in other colors, such as yellow, brown, or even reddish-brown, depending on the presence of other minerals and impurities.