mineral

Pale green tumbled mineral fragment, likely serpentine or green calcite

Probable serpentine-group mineral (Mg3Si2O5(OH)4) or, less likely, calcite (CaCO3); identification is uncertain from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Pale green tumbled mineral fragment, likely serpentine or green calcite
Scientific name: Probable serpentine-group mineral (Mg3Si2O5(OH)4) or, less likely, calcite (CaCO3); identification is uncertain from the photograph
Category: mineral
Identified: August 7, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $0.50–$5 for a common fragment of this size; potentially $5–$20 if it proves to be an attractive, unusual, or properly identified mineral specimen. The image alone does not support a higher valuation.

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

Small, pale yellow-green, irregularly rounded fragment with a dull to slightly waxy luster and apparently fine-grained texture. Estimated Mohs hardness is about 2.5–4 if calcite or serpentine; it may scratch with a steel knife. No clear crystal faces or cleavage are visible. Specific gravity would typically be about 2.5–2.7 for serpentine and 2.7 for calcite. A dilute hydrochloric-acid test would strongly fizz if it is calcite but generally not if it is serpentine.

Formation & geological history

If serpentine, it formed when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite were hydrated during tectonic activity, commonly in ophiolites and subduction-related settings. If calcite, it could have precipitated from groundwater or hydrothermal fluids, or formed as a vein or sedimentary deposit. A precise geological age cannot be determined from the image; these materials range from Precambrian to Recent formations.

Uses & applications

Serpentine is used as a decorative stone, carving material, and ornamental aggregate; some varieties are cut into beads and cabochons. Calcite is widely used in cement, lime, agricultural soil treatment, and optical specimens. This small fragment would primarily have modest educational or collector value.

Geological facts

The specimen appears to be a natural or lightly tumbled geological fragment, but the image is not sufficient for a confident species-level identification. Bright yellow-green color can occur in serpentine, calcite, epidote, prehnite, or altered rock. Serpentine should not be confused with asbestos-bearing fibrous minerals; avoid grinding or creating dust from unknown material.

Field identification & locations

Common serpentine occurrences include California, Vermont, Italy, Canada, New Zealand, and many ophiolite belts worldwide. Calcite is nearly ubiquitous globally. In the field, inspect for waxy green color, softness, and a smooth massive texture for serpentine; test for vigorous acid effervescence and rhombohedral cleavage for calcite. A hardness test, streak test, acid test, and specific-gravity measurement would substantially improve identification. The photographed object could also be a small piece of green glass or resin, so confirmation with these tests is recommended.