metamorphic
Serpentinite
Serpentinite (composed primarily of Serpentine group minerals: (Mg, Fe)3Si2O5(OH)4)
Hardness: 3-6 Mohs. Color: Various shades of green, often mottled or veined. Luster: Greasy, waxy, or silky. Texture: Fine-grained, often feels slippery or soapy. Structure: Massive or fibrous.
- Hardness
- 3-6 Mohs
- Color
- Various shades of green, often mottled or veined
- Luster
- Greasy, waxy, or silky
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Serpentinite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3-6 Mohs. Color: Various shades of green, often mottled or veined. Luster: Greasy, waxy, or silky. Texture: Fine-grained, often feels slippery or soapy. Structure: Massive or fibrous.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the low-temperature metamorphic transformation of ultramafic rocks from the Earth's mantle, such as peridotite. This process, known as serpentinization, involves the introduction of water into the rock at relatively low temperatures and pressures.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone in architecture (terrazzo, facing stone), as a source of magnesium, and sometimes carved for jewelry or ornaments. Historically used for asbestos production, though this is now restricted.
Geological facts
Serpentinite is the state rock of California. It is often found in ophiolite complexes, which are slices of oceanic crust and mantle that have been thrust onto continental crust.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its characteristic green color and waxy, 'snake-skin' like appearance. It is commonly found in mountain belts and along tectonic plate boundaries. Collectors should look for its distinctive greasy feel and mottled green patterns.
More like this
