metamorphic
Green serpentine (likely rough serpentine)
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile; composition approximately Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOlive-green, mottled, massive and waxy to slightly vitreous; Mohs hardness about 2.5–5.5, with no prominent cleavage. The photo does not allow a reliable distinction from other green minerals such as nephrite or olivine.
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Physical properties
Olive-green, mottled, massive and waxy to slightly vitreous; Mohs hardness about 2.5–5.5, with no prominent cleavage. The photo does not allow a reliable distinction from other green minerals such as nephrite or olivine.
Formation & geological history
Forms when magnesium-rich rocks, especially peridotite, are hydrated during metamorphism; occurrences range from ancient to geologically recent and are common in altered oceanic crust and mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Decorative stone, carvings, ornamental objects, and sometimes a source of asbestos-bearing chrysotile; use depends on mineral identification and fiber content.
Geological facts
“Serpentine” names a mineral group and also rocks rich in those minerals; some varieties are fibrous, so avoid cutting or grinding unidentified material.
Field identification & locations
Look for an opaque to translucent olive-green color, mottled texture, and waxy feel; commonly found in serpentinite belts worldwide. Photo-based identification is uncertain without tests or locality information.
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