metamorphic

Serpentinized ultramafic rock (serpentinite)

Serpentinite, dominated by serpentine-group minerals (lizardite/chrysotile/antigorite), with possible magnetite, talc, and brucite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically olive-green to dark green, mottled, waxy or greasy luster, and massive to veined; Mohs hardness is about 2.5–4, with no consistent cleavage. The pale gray-white bands may be carbonate or quartz veins; exact identification requires testing.

Identified September 16, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Serpentinized ultramafic rock (serpentinite)
Scientific name: Serpentinite, dominated by serpentine-group minerals (lizardite/chrysotile/antigorite), with possible magnetite, talc, and brucite
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$30 for ordinary specimens; $30–$200 for attractive polished or collector-grade pieces.

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 mantle-derived peridotite is hydrated and metamorphosed during seafloor alteration or subduction. It commonly formed in Paleozoic–Mesozoic ophiolite belts, though the image alone cannot establish age.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carving material, aggregate, and historically as asbestos-bearing ornamental stone; fibrous chrysotile varieties require strict health precautions and should not be cut or abraded.

Geological facts

Green coloration commonly comes from iron-bearing serpentine and associated chlorite; magnetite may make some serpentinite weakly magnetic. It can resemble nephrite jade, but serpentinite is generally softer.

Field identification & locations

Look for a green, slick or waxy surface, dark veining, low hardness, and possible magnetism. Common in ophiolites and tectonic fault zones worldwide, including California, Italy, Greece, New Zealand, and the Appalachians.