metamorphic

Rounded greenish stone, possibly serpentinite or greenstone

Likely serpentinite (hydrated ultramafic rock; chiefly serpentine-group minerals), but the photograph is insufficient for confident species identification

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Fine-grained, olive-green to gray-green, dull to subtly waxy luster, rounded/tumbled surface; serpentine has Mohs hardness about 2.5–4 and no obvious cleavage. The specimen appears roughly 1–2 cm across; density is commonly about 2.5–2.6 g/cm³.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Rounded greenish stone, possibly serpentinite or greenstone
Scientific name: Likely serpentinite (hydrated ultramafic rock; chiefly serpentine-group minerals), but the photograph is insufficient for confident species identification
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $1–$10 for an unidentified small tumbled specimen; $10–$30 if confirmed as attractive, patterned serpentinite.

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

Serpentinite forms when mantle-derived peridotite is hydrothermally altered by water, commonly along convergent-plate boundaries and fault zones; ages range from Precambrian to modern tectonic settings. Its color and texture can also resemble chlorite-rich greenstone or altered basalt.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carvings, and occasionally jewelry; larger serpentinite masses are used for architectural facing and ornamental objects. This small piece has mainly educational or modest collecting value.

Geological facts

Serpentinite commonly contains magnetite and may be weakly magnetic; some varieties contain chrysotile asbestos, so avoid cutting, drilling, or generating dust until tested.

Field identification & locations

Look for an olive-green color, smooth waxy feel, mottled veins, and relatively low hardness; a steel nail may scratch it. Common occurrences include California, Vermont, New Zealand, Italy, and ophiolite belts worldwide.