metamorphic
Polished serpentine (likely bowenite/antigorite)
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite or lizardite; approximate formula Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically pale green to yellow-green with mottled veining, waxy to greasy luster, and conchoidal-to-uneven fracture; Mohs hardness 2.5–4, specific gravity about 2.5–2.6. The specimen appears polished and may contain dark magnetite or chromite inclusions.
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Physical properties
Typically pale green to yellow-green with mottled veining, waxy to greasy luster, and conchoidal-to-uneven fracture; Mohs hardness 2.5–4, specific gravity about 2.5–2.6. The specimen appears polished and may contain dark magnetite or chromite inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Forms when ultramafic rocks such as peridotite hydrate during low-temperature metamorphism, commonly in oceanic crust and mountain belts; ages vary widely, from ancient Precambrian bodies to younger tectonic zones.
Uses & applications
Carved into ornaments, cabochons, beads, and decorative objects; massive serpentine is also used as architectural stone, though fibrous varieties may contain asbestos and require caution.
Geological facts
Serpentine is a mineral group rather than one single mineral; its green color commonly results from iron substitution. Bowenite is a translucent, harder ornamental variety of antigorite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its soft, waxy feel, green mottling, low hardness, and resistance to dilute acid; common sources include California, New Zealand, Italy, Canada, and Afghanistan. A knife may scratch many specimens, but testing can damage the polish.
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