metamorphic

Serpentine-rich metamorphic rock (probable serpentinite)

Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile), commonly with magnetite and chromite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark olive-green, fine-grained, waxy to greasy luster with mottled texture; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, variable cleavage, and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.6. The rounded, polished-looking surface may be natural weathering or human smoothing; image-based identification is provisional.

Identified September 10, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentine-rich metamorphic rock (probable serpentinite)
Scientific name: Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile), commonly with magnetite and chromite
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$150+ for attractive polished, patterned, or locality-labeled 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 ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite undergo hydration and metamorphism, commonly along tectonic plate boundaries and ancient oceanic crust. Serpentinization ranges from Precambrian to modern geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carving material, landscaping rock, and occasionally architectural facing; historically used for beads and ornamental objects. Chrysotile-bearing material should not be cut or powdered because asbestos fibers can be hazardous.

Geological facts

Often contains magnetite, making some pieces weakly magnetic. Its green color and greasy feel distinguish it from many dark igneous rocks.

Field identification & locations

Common in ophiolite belts, subduction zones, and mountain regions worldwide, including California, Italy, New Zealand, and the Appalachian region. Confirm with a streak, hardness, magnetism, and ideally thin-section or X-ray analysis.