metamorphic
Pale green tumbled stone, possibly serpentine
Serpentinite (chiefly serpentine-group minerals; visual identification is uncertain)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmooth, rounded, pale green-gray surface with scattered reddish-brown flecks and a subdued, waxy-to-dull luster. Serpentine minerals have Mohs hardness about 2.5–5 and a monoclinic crystal structure; the image does not show diagnostic cleavage or allow reliable hardness testing.
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Physical properties
Smooth, rounded, pale green-gray surface with scattered reddish-brown flecks and a subdued, waxy-to-dull luster. Serpentine minerals have Mohs hardness about 2.5–5 and a monoclinic crystal structure; the image does not show diagnostic cleavage or allow reliable hardness testing.
Formation & geological history
Serpentinite forms when ultramafic rocks are altered by water-rich fluids, commonly along tectonic plate boundaries; alteration ages vary widely. The rounded shape indicates it has been tumbled or polished.
Uses & applications
Used as decorative stone, carvings, beads, and inexpensive jewelry; serpentinite is also used locally as building or facing stone.
Geological facts
Serpentine is a mineral group, not one single mineral, and its color ranges from nearly white-green to deep green. Similar pale tumbled stones can also be quartzite or other rocks, so a photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
Field identification & locations
Check for a waxy feel and relatively low hardness; a steel point may scratch many serpentinites, but testing can damage the specimen. Serpentinite occurs in altered ultramafic belts worldwide, including California, Italy, and New Zealand.
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