Rock Identifier
Pale green rough mineral fragment, likely serpentine or chrysoprase (Probable serpentine-group mineral (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄) or nickeline-free green chalcedony; identification is uncertain from the image) — mineral
mineral

Pale green rough mineral fragment, likely serpentine or chrysoprase

Probable serpentine-group mineral (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄) or nickeline-free green chalcedony; identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small pale green, opaque to weakly translucent, dull-to-waxy specimen with an irregular fracture and no visible crystal faces. Likely Mohs 2.5–4 if serpentine, or about 6.5–7 if chrysoprase; specific gravity and streak testing would distinguish them.

Identified More mineral →
Explore Pale green rough mineral fragment, likely serpentine or chrysoprase in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Small pale green, opaque to weakly translucent, dull-to-waxy specimen with an irregular fracture and no visible crystal faces. Likely Mohs 2.5–4 if serpentine, or about 6.5–7 if chrysoprase; specific gravity and streak testing would distinguish them.

Formation & geological history

Serpentine forms when ultramafic rocks are hydrothermally altered, commonly during plate subduction; chrysoprase is nickel-colored chalcedony formed in weathering zones. Neither can be assigned a geological age from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Serpentine is used for carving, ornaments, and occasionally countertops; chrysoprase is a semiprecious gemstone and cabochon material.

Geological facts

The vivid green color may result from nickel-bearing minerals, but color alone is not diagnostic. A hardness, streak, acid, and specific-gravity test would greatly improve identification.

Field identification & locations

Common serpentine localities include California, Italy, New Zealand, and the Ural Mountains; chrysoprase occurs notably in Australia, Poland, and the United States. Test hardness on an inconspicuous area and avoid acid until identified.