metamorphic
Polished serpentine pebble
Serpentinite; primarily serpentine-group minerals (e.g., antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOlive-green to brown mottled surface with a waxy-to-dull luster; serpentine minerals are typically Mohs 2.5–4 and monoclinic or poorly crystalline. Exact identification and composition cannot be confirmed from the photo alone.
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Physical properties
Olive-green to brown mottled surface with a waxy-to-dull luster; serpentine minerals are typically Mohs 2.5–4 and monoclinic or poorly crystalline. Exact identification and composition cannot be confirmed from the photo alone.
Formation & geological history
Forms when water alters ultramafic rocks, commonly at tectonic plate boundaries; serpentinite ranges from geologically young to hundreds of millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Polished serpentine is used for ornamental objects, beads, and carvings; serpentinite also serves as decorative building stone.
Geological facts
Serpentinite often contains contrasting veins or patches, and some varieties may contain asbestos-form serpentine minerals.
Field identification & locations
The smooth, mottled green-brown pebble is consistent with polished serpentine, but similar appearance can occur in other rocks. Common sources include mountain belts and ophiolite zones; avoid cutting or grinding unidentified serpentinite because of possible fibrous minerals.
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