
mineral
Polished pale-green stone, likely serpentine or jade
Serpentine-group mineral (commonly antigorite/lizardite), or possibly nephrite jade (tremolite–actinolite amphibole)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque cream-to-pale green, waxy to slightly greasy luster, smoothly polished and roughly cylindrical with faceted ends. Likely hardness 2.5–4 for serpentine or 6–6.5 for nephrite; specific gravity approximately 2.5–3.0.
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Physical properties
Opaque cream-to-pale green, waxy to slightly greasy luster, smoothly polished and roughly cylindrical with faceted ends. Likely hardness 2.5–4 for serpentine or 6–6.5 for nephrite; specific gravity approximately 2.5–3.0.
Formation & geological history
Serpentine forms when ultramafic mantle rocks hydrate during tectonic alteration; nephrite forms by metamorphic replacement in serpentinite-related zones. Exact age and identity cannot be determined from the photograph alone.
Uses & applications
Carved or polished serpentine is used for ornaments, beads, and lapidary items; genuine nephrite is used for jewelry and carvings. Common serpentine pieces typically have modest value.
Geological facts
The rounded, waxy appearance is consistent with serpentine, but color and shape alone cannot reliably distinguish it from jade, soapstone, or dyed stone.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include California, New Zealand, Italy, Russia, China, and Canada. Check hardness, heft, translucency, and a scratch test on an inconspicuous area; laboratory testing is needed for confident jade identification.
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