metamorphic
Serpentine (likely polished serpentine pebble)
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile; approximate formula Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 2.5–4 Mohs; pale green, waxy to greasy luster, commonly mottled or fibrous, with poor cleavage and fine-grained massive texture. The rounded, green surface and darker altered rim are consistent with serpentine, though the image is not diagnostic.
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Physical properties
Hardness 2.5–4 Mohs; pale green, waxy to greasy luster, commonly mottled or fibrous, with poor cleavage and fine-grained massive texture. The rounded, green surface and darker altered rim are consistent with serpentine, though the image is not diagnostic.
Formation & geological history
Forms when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite undergo low-temperature hydration and metamorphism; commonly Paleozoic to recent in active or formerly active tectonic belts. Major occurrences include California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and the Ural Mountains.
Uses & applications
Used as ornamental stone, carvings, beads, and small polished specimens; massive serpentine has also been used in decorative building stone. Chrysotile-rich varieties were historically used as asbestos, but fibrous material should not be cut or powdered.
Geological facts
Serpentine is a mineral group rather than one single mineral and often replaces olivine and pyroxene during hydration. Its green color can resemble jade, but serpentine is generally softer and less dense.
Field identification & locations
Check for a waxy feel, low hardness, green coloration, and a white streak; it may be scratched by a steel knife, unlike jade. Confirmatory identification requires hardness, density, and ideally Raman or X-ray testing.
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