metamorphic
Polished yellow-green serpentine pendant
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite and/or lizardite; approximate formula Mg3Si2O5(OH)4
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically Mohs 2.5–4, opaque pale yellow-green with waxy to greasy luster, fine-grained texture, and no visible crystal faces; specific gravity about 2.5–2.6. The smooth surface and metal bail indicate a polished, human-made jewelry specimen.
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Physical properties
Typically Mohs 2.5–4, opaque pale yellow-green with waxy to greasy luster, fine-grained texture, and no visible crystal faces; specific gravity about 2.5–2.6. The smooth surface and metal bail indicate a polished, human-made jewelry specimen.
Formation & geological history
Serpentine forms when ultramafic rocks such as peridotite undergo hydration and alteration, commonly along tectonic plate boundaries; it may form from Paleozoic to modern geological processes. Exact identification is uncertain from a photograph alone because similar jade-like materials can look nearly identical.
Uses & applications
Used for carvings, ornaments, beads, cabochons, and inexpensive jewelry; historically used as a decorative stone. It is softer and generally less valuable than jadeite or nephrite.
Geological facts
Yellow-green serpentine is often marketed as “new jade,” though it is not true jade. Some varieties contain fibrous chrysotile, so cutting or sanding unknown material should avoid producing inhalable dust.
Field identification & locations
Field clues include low hardness, waxy feel, mottled green-yellow color, and a white streak; it may scratch with a steel knife, unlike most jade. Common sources include Italy, Canada, the United States, New Zealand, China, and Afghanistan.
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