Rock Identifier
Polished green-and-white stone, possibly serpentine or jade (Tentatively serpentine (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄) or nephrite jade (interlocking amphibole fibers)) — mineral
mineral

Polished green-and-white stone, possibly serpentine or jade

Tentatively serpentine (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄) or nephrite jade (interlocking amphibole fibers)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The rounded, polished specimen appears dark green, pale green, white, and black with a waxy-to-subvitreous luster. Serpentine has Mohs hardness 2.5–4; nephrite is tougher and about 6–6.5; crystal structure and specific gravity cannot be confirmed from the image.

Identified More mineral
Explore Polished green-and-white stone, possibly serpentine or jade in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

Physical properties

The rounded, polished specimen appears dark green, pale green, white, and black with a waxy-to-subvitreous luster. Serpentine has Mohs hardness 2.5–4; nephrite is tougher and about 6–6.5; crystal structure and specific gravity cannot be confirmed from the image.

Formation & geological history

Serpentine forms when ultramafic rocks undergo hydration and metamorphism; nephrite forms through metamorphic alteration involving magnesium-rich rocks. Precise age and origin require locality and testing.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, beads, carvings, cabochons, and decorative objects; confirmed high-quality jade can be valuable, while common serpentine is inexpensive.

Geological facts

Green mottling and black veining are typical of serpentine-group material, but dyed marble, jadeite, or another polished stone can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Test cautiously: serpentine is relatively soft and may scratch with a steel point, whereas jade resists scratching and feels notably tough and dense. Confirm with hardness, specific gravity, refractive index, and microscopy; common sources include California, Italy, New Zealand, China, and Myanmar.