metamorphic

Serpentine-rich rock (probable serpentinite)

Serpentinite; predominantly serpentine-group minerals, commonly antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile, with possible magnetite and carbonate

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically olive-green to brown with mottled or waxy surfaces and locally slick texture; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, luster waxy to greasy, very fine-grained, with no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape and glossy surface may reflect natural weathering or polishing; image-based identification is provisional.

Identified September 21, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentine-rich rock (probable serpentinite)
Scientific name: Serpentinite; predominantly serpentine-group minerals, commonly antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile, with possible magnetite and carbonate
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 21, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common rounded specimen; $30–$150+ if unusually attractive, polished, or well documented.

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-plate boundaries. Serpentinite can range from Paleozoic to modern tectonic settings.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carvings, countertops, and collector specimens; historically used for tools and ornamental objects. Avoid cutting or sanding unknown material because some serpentinites may contain chrysotile asbestos.

Geological facts

Green coloration comes from serpentine minerals, while dark flecks may be magnetite or chromite and reddish areas may reflect iron oxidation. Serpentinite commonly feels unusually smooth or soapy.

Field identification & locations

Common in ophiolite belts and subduction-related mélanges, including California, the Appalachians, New Zealand, Italy, and the Urals. Confirm with a streak, hardness, magnetism, and ideally Raman/XRD testing; it could also be another green altered ultramafic rock.