metamorphic
Green Slate Pebble (Serpentine / Greenschist Pebble)
Greenschist / Low-grade Metamorphic Rock
Hardness: 3-5 on Mohs scale; Color: muted greenish-grey with subtle banding; Luster: dull to faintly waxy; Structure: fine-grained, slightly foliated; Cleavage: good basal/slaty cleavage tendencies.
- Hardness
- 3-5 on Mohs scale
- Color
- muted greenish-grey with subtle banding
- Luster
- dull to faintly waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-5 on Mohs scale; Color: muted greenish-grey with subtle banding; Luster: dull to faintly waxy; Structure: fine-grained, slightly foliated; Cleavage: good basal/slaty cleavage tendencies.
Formation & geological history
Formed through low-grade regional metamorphism of basalt, gabbro, or muddy sedimentary rocks containing chlorite, epidote, or actinolite under low-to-moderate temperature and pressure conditions, later water-worn into a smooth river/beach pebble.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected as a beach pebble or used in decorative landscaping, rock gardens, and tumbling projects.
Geological facts
Green-toned metamorphic pebbles owe their distinct olive to blue-green hues primarily to the presence of chlorite minerals formed during metamorphism. They are frequently smoothed naturally by river currents or ocean waves.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its smooth, water-worn elongated shape, soft green-grey tint, fine grain, and moderate hardness. Commonly found along stream beds, riverbanks, and coastal gravel beaches worldwide.
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