![Serpentine-bearing metamorphic rock (likely chromite/vesuvianite-bearing serpentinite) (Serpentinite, chiefly serpentine-group minerals [(Mg,Fe)₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄], with dark accessory minerals) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/serpentine-bearing-metamorphic-rock-269b5175-aa67-4e3d-84e6-44db32935f73-compressed.jpg)
metamorphic
Serpentine-bearing metamorphic rock (likely chromite/vesuvianite-bearing serpentinite)
Serpentinite, chiefly serpentine-group minerals [(Mg,Fe)₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄], with dark accessory minerals
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale green to whitish, mottled with black-purple granular patches; typically waxy to greasy luster, massive texture, and Mohs hardness about 2.5–4. Crystal structure is commonly fine-grained and not obvious; cleavage is poor or absent.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Serpentine-bearing metamorphic rock (likely chromite/vesuvianite-bearing serpentinite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pale green to whitish, mottled with black-purple granular patches; typically waxy to greasy luster, massive texture, and Mohs hardness about 2.5–4. Crystal structure is commonly fine-grained and not obvious; cleavage is poor or absent.
Formation & geological history
Forms when magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks such as peridotite are hydrated during low-temperature metamorphism, commonly along ancient oceanic crust and tectonic faults. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Uses & applications
Used as ornamental stone, carving material, and occasionally decorative aggregate; attractive polished pieces may be collected, though fibrous varieties can contain asbestos-group minerals.
Geological facts
The green coloration is characteristic of serpentine minerals, while the dark inclusions may be chromite, magnetite, or other metamorphic minerals. Identification from an image is provisional because several green-black rocks look similar.
Field identification & locations
Common in ophiolite belts and mountain fault zones, including California, Italy, New Zealand, and parts of the Appalachians. A waxy feel, low hardness, green streak or powder, and association with black grains support serpentinite; avoid grinding unknown specimens.
More like this
