metamorphic

Serpentine-rich metamorphic rock

Serpentinite; chiefly antigorite/lizardite Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, possibly with talc, chlorite, magnetite, or carbonate

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale gray-green, mottled, dull to waxy luster, massive and fine-grained with no obvious crystals; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, commonly low-to-moderate density. The image is consistent with serpentine but cannot confirm exact mineralogy visually.

Identified September 16, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentine-rich metamorphic rock
Scientific name: Serpentinite; chiefly antigorite/lizardite Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, possibly with talc, chlorite, magnetite, or carbonate
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$150+ for attractive polished or unusually patterned material.

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 hydrate during low-temperature metamorphism, commonly along faults and oceanic crust; ages range from Precambrian to modern tectonic settings.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carving material, countertops, and historically as a source of asbestos-group serpentine fibers; attractive polished pieces are collected.

Geological facts

Serpentinite may contain magnetite and can show weak magnetism. Fibrous varieties may contain chrysotile, so avoid cutting, sanding, or creating dust without testing and proper controls.

Field identification & locations

Common in ophiolites and subduction-zone mélanges, including California, Italy, New Zealand, and the Appalachians. Field clues are green color, waxy feel, softness, and reaction generally absent or weak with dilute acid.