metamorphic

Polished green serpentine (likely bowenite)

Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; bowenite is a compact Mg-rich variety often called “serpentine jade”

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 3–5.5 Mohs (bowenite up to ~5.5), mottled apple-green to dark green, waxy to vitreous luster, massive and non-crystalline in hand specimen; typically low density (~2.5–2.6). The rounded shape and strong polish indicate a tumbled or carved piece.

Identified September 17, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished green serpentine (likely bowenite)
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; bowenite is a compact Mg-rich variety often called “serpentine jade”
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 17, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $3–$20 for a small polished/tumbled piece; $20–$75 for attractive larger bowenite carvings. A definitive ID requires hardness, density, and ideally Raman/XRF testing.

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

Formation & geological history

Forms when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite are hydrated during metamorphism. Serpentine commonly formed in Paleozoic–Mesozoic or younger tectonic belts; exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used for ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons, and decorative stone; historically marketed as “New Jade.” Common polished pieces are inexpensive.

Geological facts

The bright green mottling can resemble jade, but serpentine is generally softer and less tough than jadeite or nephrite. Avoid inhaling dust when cutting, as some serpentinite may contain trace asbestos-form minerals.

Field identification & locations

Consistent with serpentinite-derived material, but the polished specimen cannot be localized confidently. Estonia near 57.9°N, 26.9°E is not a major serpentine source, so it may be imported or purchased; test hardness and streak only inconspicuously.