mineral
Tumbled pale green stone, likely serpentine or jade imitation
Indeterminate; possible serpentine-group mineral (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall polished/tumbled pebble with pale green, cream, and gray coloration, waxy-to-dull luster, and no visible crystals or cleavage. Likely hardness about 3–6 Mohs depending on composition; precise identification requires hardness, streak, density, or laboratory testing.
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Physical properties
Small polished/tumbled pebble with pale green, cream, and gray coloration, waxy-to-dull luster, and no visible crystals or cleavage. Likely hardness about 3–6 Mohs depending on composition; precise identification requires hardness, streak, density, or laboratory testing.
Formation & geological history
If serpentine, it formed by hydrothermal alteration of magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks, commonly during mountain-building; such rocks range from Paleozoic to modern tectonic settings. The rounded shape is human-produced by tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative or collectible stone; serpentine is also carved into ornaments and sometimes marketed as “new jade.” It is generally low-value unless unusually patterned or proven to be jadeite/nephrite.
Geological facts
Its appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish serpentine from nephrite jade, pale aventurine, calcite, or dyed material. Jade is substantially tougher and typically more valuable than serpentine.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include California, New Zealand, Italy, China, Canada, and Afghanistan. Test cautiously: calcite fizzes in acid and scratches easily, while true jade resists scratching and feels notably dense; avoid destructive tests on valuable pieces.
