metamorphic

Green serpentine-rich rock (possibly serpentinite)

Serpentinite, composed chiefly of serpentine-group minerals (e.g., lizardite, antigorite, or chrysotile)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark green to black, mottled and veined, with a waxy to dull luster and irregular fracture; serpentine minerals are typically Mohs 2.5–5.5. The photo does not show diagnostic crystal faces, so the identification is provisional.

Identified September 29, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Green serpentine-rich rock (possibly serpentinite)
Scientific name: Serpentinite, composed chiefly of serpentine-group minerals (e.g., lizardite, antigorite, or chrysotile)
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 29, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Rough common fragments: about $1–$10; polished or carved pieces can be worth more depending on size and quality.

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

Forms when water alters ultramafic rocks such as peridotite, commonly during seafloor alteration or metamorphism along tectonic plate boundaries. The specimen’s age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Decorative stone and carving material; some serpentinite is used as dimension stone. Avoid cutting or grinding unknown serpentinite because some varieties contain fibrous chrysotile asbestos.

Geological facts

Serpentinite is a rock rather than a single mineral, and its color and texture vary with mineral mixture and alteration.

Field identification & locations

The green color, dark mottling, and pale vein-like markings fit serpentinite, but similar-looking rocks include chlorite-rich schist and altered volcanic rock. The reported coordinates in northern Iran do not establish the source; a fresh surface and hardness/streak tests or expert examination would improve identification.