metamorphic
Polished dark green stone pendant, likely serpentine or nephrite jade
Serpentine-group minerals, commonly antigorite/lizardite; possible nephrite (microcrystalline tremolite–actinolite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark olive-green to black, waxy to subvitreous luster, opaque, and irregularly polished; serpentine has Mohs hardness 2.5–4, while nephrite is 6–6.5. No visible crystal cleavage or structure can be confirmed from the image.
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Physical properties
Dark olive-green to black, waxy to subvitreous luster, opaque, and irregularly polished; serpentine has Mohs hardness 2.5–4, while nephrite is 6–6.5. No visible crystal cleavage or structure can be confirmed from the image.
Formation & geological history
Serpentine forms when ultramafic rocks hydrate during metamorphism, while nephrite forms through metamorphic alteration of magnesium-rich rocks. These materials range from Precambrian to recent geologic settings.
Uses & applications
Used for carved ornaments, cabochons, jewelry, and decorative objects; nephrite generally has greater durability and value than serpentine.
Geological facts
The specimen is human-polished and wire-wrapped. Its dark color and mottled green surface are consistent with serpentine, but visual identification alone cannot reliably distinguish it from nephrite or other green stones.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include California, Vermont, New Zealand, China, Canada, and Russia. A scratch test, specific-gravity measurement, magnification, and ideally Raman or X-ray analysis are needed for confirmation.
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