metamorphic

Green serpentine (likely serpentinite)

Serpentine-group minerals, commonly antigorite, lizardite, and/or chrysotile; rock name: serpentinite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, rounded green specimen with mottled dark and pale areas and a waxy to slightly glossy luster. Serpentine minerals are typically Mohs 2.5–5.5, monoclinic or platy/fibrous, with variable cleavage; exact hardness and composition cannot be confirmed from the photo.

Identified October 4, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when water alters magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks, commonly at tectonic plate boundaries; the specimen’s age and locality cannot be determined from appearance alone.

Uses & applications

Serpentinite is used as decorative stone, carving material, and sometimes in jewelry; this small specimen is mainly suited to collecting.

Geological facts

Serpentine is a mineral group rather than a single mineral, and its color ranges from pale green to nearly black.

Field identification & locations

The mottled green color and waxy-looking surface fit serpentine, but visual identification is not definitive. It occurs in serpentinite belts worldwide; avoid scratching or cutting unknown material, as some serpentinite can contain asbestos-form chrysotile.