metamorphic
Greenstone (Celadonite-bearing Volcanic)
Hydrothermally altered basalt or andesite with Celadonite (K(Mg,Fe2+)(Fe3+,Al)Si4O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 5-6 (base rock) to 2 (celadonite areas); Color: Pale mint green to sage green; Luster: Dull to earthy; Texture: Fine-grained, smoothed by water erosion; Cleavage: None (massive).
- Hardness
- 5-6 (base rock) to 2 (celadonite areas)
- Color
- Pale mint green to sage green
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 (base rock) to 2 (celadonite areas); Color: Pale mint green to sage green; Luster: Dull to earthy; Texture: Fine-grained, smoothed by water erosion; Cleavage: None (massive).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the low-grade hydrothermal alteration of volcanic rocks, typically basaltic lavas. The green color comes from the inclusion of celadonite or chlorite filling vesicles and replacing minerals within the matrix during cooling and fluid interaction.
Uses & applications
Primarily collected as a decorative beach stone or lapidary material. In some contexts, celadonite is used as a natural green pigment (Terra Verte) in art.
Geological facts
This specific pale green hue is very common in coastal areas of the Pacific Northwest and volcanic islands. It is often mistaken for jadeite or nephrite, though it is much softer and more porous.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive pastel green color and dull, non-crystalline surface. It is frequently found as rounded pebbles on beaches near ancient volcanic flows. Test with a steel blade; it will often scratch more easily than true jade.
