metamorphic

Serpentinite (probable)

Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (antigorite/lizardite/chrysotile), commonly with magnetite and minor olivine/pyroxene

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark green-black, mottled and waxy to slightly silky luster, irregular massive texture, with no obvious crystal faces or cleavage. Mohs hardness is about 2.5–4; specific gravity commonly 2.5–2.7. Identification is provisional from the photograph; a streak, magnetism, or hardness test would help.

Identified September 13, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentinite (probable)
Scientific name: Serpentinite; chiefly serpentine-group minerals (antigorite/lizardite/chrysotile), commonly with magnetite and minor olivine/pyroxene
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $30–$150+ if unusually attractive, polished, or locality-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 are hydrated during metamorphism, often in ophiolite belts and fault zones. The specimen’s age cannot be determined visually; serpentinite may form at many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative/ornamental stone, aggregate, carving material, and historically as a source rock for asbestos-bearing minerals. Avoid cutting or abrading unknown material because chrysotile may be present.

Geological facts

The green color comes from serpentine minerals; dark specks may be magnetite. It can resemble greenstone, chlorite schist, or weathered basalt.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in tectonic mélanges and ophiolites. The reported central-Iran location is geologically plausible for serpentinite associated with Zagros-related ophiolitic rocks, though the image alone cannot confirm locality.