metamorphic

Tumbled serpentine (likely nephrite-like greenstone)

Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; possibly mixed with tremolite-actinolite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Green to olive-brown, waxy to subvitreous luster, opaque, and smoothly polished; Mohs hardness about 2.5–5.5, with no obvious cleavage and commonly massive, mottled veining. The pale fibrous bands and translucency suggest serpentine or a related greenstone rather than jade certainty.

Identified September 2, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled serpentine (likely nephrite-like greenstone)
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; possibly mixed with tremolite-actinolite
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 2, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common tumbled piece; $30–$150+ for attractive, unusually translucent, or locality-labeled 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

Forms when ultramafic mantle rocks undergo low-temperature hydration and metamorphism, commonly in tectonic shear zones and ophiolites. Most specimens are geologically Paleozoic to Mesozoic or younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carvings, cabochons, beads, and polished collectibles; serpentine is also used occasionally as an architectural stone. It should not be marketed as jade without laboratory testing.

Geological facts

Serpentine can resemble jade, especially when polished, but is generally softer and less tough. Some varieties may contain trace chrysotile asbestos, so avoid cutting, drilling, or creating dust unless composition is confirmed.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include California, Vermont, New Zealand, Italy, and Afghanistan. Check hardness, heft, translucency, and toughness; a gemological or mineralogical test is needed to distinguish it from nephrite jade.