Rock Identifier
Likely dark green-black tumbled stone (possibly serpentine) (Unconfirmed; appearance is consistent with serpentine, a group of hydrated magnesium silicate minerals) — metamorphic
metamorphic

Likely dark green-black tumbled stone (possibly serpentine)

Unconfirmed; appearance is consistent with serpentine, a group of hydrated magnesium silicate minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, rounded, opaque dark green-black piece with a smooth, slightly glossy surface. If serpentine, hardness is about 2.5–5 Mohs and its crystal structure is typically fine-grained; the image is insufficient to establish composition or cleavage.

Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties

Small, rounded, opaque dark green-black piece with a smooth, slightly glossy surface. If serpentine, hardness is about 2.5–5 Mohs and its crystal structure is typically fine-grained; the image is insufficient to establish composition or cleavage.

Formation & geological history

Serpentine forms when water alters magnesium-rich rocks, commonly in ancient oceanic crust and mantle-derived rocks; its age depends on the host geology.

Uses & applications

Often polished for ornaments, beads, and carvings; serpentine is also used as a decorative stone.

Geological facts

The specimen is too small and visually ambiguous for a reliable identification; similar dark tumbled pieces may be other rocks or minerals.

Field identification & locations

Check for a waxy feel, green tones, and relatively easy scratching to assess serpentine; confirm with hardness and mineral tests. Serpentine occurs in ultramafic-rock belts worldwide.