metamorphic
Serpentinite
Serpentinite (Mg, Fe, Ni, Al, Zn, Mn)2-3(Si, Al, Fe)2O5(OH)4
Hardness: 3-6 Mohs; Color: Olive green to blackish-green; Luster: Waxy, greasy, or silky; Texture: Smooth, sometimes fibrous or scaly; Cleavage: Poor
- Hardness
- 3-6 Mohs
- Color
- Olive green to blackish-green
- Luster
- Waxy, greasy, or silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-6 Mohs; Color: Olive green to blackish-green; Luster: Waxy, greasy, or silky; Texture: Smooth, sometimes fibrous or scaly; Cleavage: Poor
Formation & geological history
Formed through the hydration and metamorphic transformation of ultramafic rocks from the Earth\'s mantle, such as peridotite, at tectonic plate boundaries.
Uses & applications
Used as a source of asbestos (historically), decorative building stone, carvings, jewelry, and for capturing carbon dioxide in carbon sequestration research.
Geological facts
Serpentinite is the official state rock of California. It often hosts rare plants that have adapted to its high magnesium and low calcium soil chemistry.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive green color, waxy feel, and common association with white veins of magnesite or chrysotile. Commonly found in ophiolite complexes.
