metamorphic

Serpentine-rich rock, possibly chrysotile serpentine

Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals, Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, with possible magnetite, brucite, or talc

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small irregular green-yellow specimen with mottled, waxy to dull luster and granular texture; likely Mohs hardness 2.5–4, with no obvious cleavage. Serpentine commonly has specific gravity around 2.5–2.6 and a pale green streak.

Identified September 15, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentine-rich rock, possibly chrysotile serpentine
Scientific name: Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals, Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄, with possible magnetite, brucite, or talc
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically $3–$25 for a small common specimen; attractive polished or well-documented pieces may sell for $30–$150.

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 are hydrated and altered by water during tectonic activity, commonly in oceanic crust and subduction zones. Most examples are Paleozoic to Mesozoic or younger, depending on the locality.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carving material, aggregate, and historically as a source of asbestos-bearing chrysotile; attractive pieces may be collected as lapidary specimens. Avoid cutting or grinding unknown material because some serpentinite contains hazardous asbestos fibers.

Geological facts

The image is consistent with serpentine/serpentinite but cannot establish an exact species or locality from appearance alone. Yellow-green areas may reflect weathering, brucite, or iron-bearing alteration minerals.

Field identification & locations

Look for green mottling, waxy feel, low hardness, and association with dark ultramafic rocks; a streak, hardness test, and laboratory mineral analysis improve identification. Common in California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and many ophiolite belts.