Dunite occurs in layered, gabbroic igneous complexes (see gabbro). It probably forms from the accumulation of dense, early crystallizing grains of olivine that sink to the bottom of low silica magma. Intrusions of dunite form sills or dikes.

What layer does dunite come from?

Dunite is the olivine-rich endmember of the peridotite group of mantle-derived rocks. Dunite and other peridotite rocks are considered the major constituents of the Earth's mantle above a depth of about 400 km (250 mi).

How is dunite formed simple?

Cumulative dunite is formed by fractionation of olivine from a mafic melt. Replacive dunite is a product of the reaction between a pyroxene-bearing host rock and an olivine-saturated magma, which dissolves orthopyroxene in the host peridotite and sometimes crystallizes olivine.