metamorphic

Tumbled serpentine (likely bowenite/antigorite)

Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite or lizardite; commonly Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically olive-green to yellow-green, waxy or greasy luster, Mohs hardness 2.5–4, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with poor cleavage and specific gravity about 2.5–2.6. The smooth rounded surface indicates tumbling or polishing;…

Identified August 20, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled serpentine (likely bowenite/antigorite)
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite or lizardite; commonly Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
Category: metamorphic
Identified: August 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common tumbled specimen; $30–$150 for attractive, translucent, or well-polished collector 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 rocks such as peridotite undergo low-temperature hydrothermal alteration and hydration, commonly during plate-subduction processes. Most specimens are geologically Paleozoic to Mesozoic or younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, carvings, cabochons, beads, and inexpensive jewelry; massive serpentine has also been used historically for decorative stone. Fibrous chrysotile varieties were formerly used as asbestos but are hazardous when dust-producing.

Geological facts

Serpentine is a mineral group, not a single mineral, and its name refers to its snake-like coloring and patterning. Yellow areas may be iron-rich serpentine or associated magnesite/talc.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its low hardness, waxy feel, green-yellow color, rounded alteration veins, and inability to scratch glass reliably. Common sources include California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, Russia, and Zimbabwe.