metamorphic

Tumbled green stone, likely serpentine

Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; approximate formula Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Smoothly polished, olive-green, translucent to opaque, with waxy luster; Mohs hardness 2.5–4, monoclinic or trigonal varieties, and generally poor cleavage. The image alone cannot reliably distinguish serpentine from nephrite jade, chrysoprase, or dyed stone.

Identified September 19, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled green stone, likely serpentine
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; approximate formula Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 19, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for a small common tumbled stone; $20–$100+ for attractive, well-provenanced carvings or jade-quality material.

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

Serpentine forms when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite undergo hydration during hydrothermal alteration, commonly in ancient oceanic crust and subduction zones. It occurs from Precambrian to modern geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, carvings, beads, countertops, and decorative tumbled specimens; some varieties are sold as “new jade.” Common pieces are inexpensive.

Geological facts

Serpentine’s characteristic green color comes from iron and nickel impurities. Fibrous chrysotile, a serpentine mineral, is asbestos-forming, though a polished pebble is not diagnostic of asbestos content.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its low hardness, waxy feel, green mottling, and ability to be scratched by a steel knife; jade is typically tougher and harder. Common localities include California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and Afghanistan.