metamorphic

Chrysoprase-bearing serpentine (probable)

Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, with possible nickel-bearing chrysoprase/opal and iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness typically 2.5–5.5 Mohs; mottled blue-green to turquoise-green with brown, gray, and rusty patches; waxy to dull luster and fine-grained, massive texture. The apparent green material may be chrysoprase, but image-only identification is uncertain.

Identified September 20, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Chrysoprase-bearing serpentine (probable)
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, with possible nickel-bearing chrysoprase/opal and iron oxides
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 as an attractive rough specimen; $10–$75 if confirmed, high-quality chrysoprase or lapidary-grade material.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks such as peridotite undergo hydrothermal alteration and serpentinization; associated nickel and silica can produce green chalcedony or opal. Usually Mesozoic or older host-rock environments, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Cut and polished as ornamental stone, cabochons, beads, and lapidary material; serpentine is also used decoratively and occasionally as a carving stone.

Geological facts

Green color can result from nickel, chromium, or iron rather than copper. Serpentine commonly shows a slick, waxy feel and may contain magnetite grains.

Field identification & locations

Likely serpentine or a serpentine-hosted green silica mineral; test streak, hardness, translucency, and specific gravity, but laboratory Raman/XRF testing is needed for confirmation. Common occurrences include ultramafic belts in California, New Zealand, Australia, and the Ural Mountains.