metamorphic

Serpentine (polished/tumbled piece)

Serpentinite; chiefly antigorite, lizardite, and/or chrysotile, commonly with magnetite and carbonate minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically green to yellow-green with a waxy to greasy luster, Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, very fine-grained texture, and irregular pale veining from asbestos-group or carbonate minerals. The smooth, shaped surface indicates polishing or tumbling rather than a natural outcrop surface.

Identified September 7, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentine (polished/tumbled piece)
Scientific name: Serpentinite; chiefly antigorite, lizardite, and/or chrysotile, commonly with magnetite and carbonate minerals
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 7, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common polished palm stone; $30–$100+ for unusually patterned, larger, or high-quality lapidary pieces.

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

Forms when mantle-derived ultramafic rocks such as peridotite undergo hydration and metamorphism, usually in oceanic crust, subduction zones, and tectonic mélange; much of it formed during the Phanerozoic. Geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, carvings, beads, countertops, and lapidary material; historically used for green decorative architecture. Fibrous chrysotile-bearing material should not be cut or abraded because inhaled fibers are hazardous.

Geological facts

Serpentinite is the state rock of California and is often associated with chromite, magnetite, and talc. Its pale “net” veining commonly reflects crack-filling minerals or alteration zones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its apple- to olive-green color, waxy feel, low hardness, and pale web-like veins; a steel knife may scratch it. Common localities include California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and the Appalachian and Alpine belts.