metamorphic

Likely serpentine-rich greenstone

Serpentinite/serpentinized ultramafic rock; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄), possibly with chlorite, talc, magnetite, or epidote

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark to vivid green, fine-grained and waxy to greasy luster, with mottled veining; typically Mohs 2.5–4, non-cleaving to weakly foliated, and relatively dense (about 2.5–2.7). The image is strongly backlit, so exact texture and mineral identification are limited.

Identified September 12, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely serpentine-rich greenstone
Scientific name: Serpentinite/serpentinized ultramafic rock; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄), possibly with chlorite, talc, magnetite, or epidote
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$30 for a small common specimen; $30–$150+ if polished, vividly patterned, or unusually attractive.

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 olivine- and pyroxene-rich mantle rocks hydrate during metamorphism, commonly along faults and ophiolite belts. The specimen’s age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used decoratively as ‘serpentine marble,’ for carvings, tiles, and ornamental stone; attractive pieces are collected. Avoid cutting or grinding unknown material because some serpentinite can contain asbestos-form minerals.

Geological facts

The intense green color commonly reflects serpentine minerals, while black specks may be magnetite. Serpentinite is not itself an igneous rock, although its protolith was usually peridotite or pyroxenite.

Field identification & locations

Green, soft, waxy-looking rock that may scratch with a steel knife and often leaves a pale streak; commonly occurs in ophiolites and tectonic mélanges. Around central Afghanistan, serpentinite and other metamorphic rocks are geologically plausible, but this identification remains image-limited.