metamorphic

Tumbled serpentine (likely)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Olive-green to yellow-green, waxy to greasy luster, fine-grained and rounded from tumbling; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, with no visible crystals and generally poor cleavage. The image is consistent with serpentine, though similar-looking greenstone or nephrite cannot be ruled out visually.

Identified August 26, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled serpentine (likely)
Scientific name: Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite, lizardite, or chrysotile; approximate formula Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
Category: metamorphic
Identified: August 26, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $3–$20 for a common tumbled piece; $20–$100+ for attractive, verified ornamental serpentine or quality carvings.

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 magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks such as peridotite undergo hydrothermal alteration and hydration, commonly in ophiolites and subduction zones; ages range from Precambrian to modern tectonic settings.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, carvings, beads, cabochons, and occasionally architectural facing; historically used for decorative objects and sometimes mistaken for jade.

Geological facts

Serpentine is a mineral-group name rather than one single mineral, and some varieties contain fibrous chrysotile asbestos. Avoid cutting or drilling unknown material until asbestos content is excluded.

Field identification & locations

Common in California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, Russia, and ophiolite belts worldwide. Field clues include a soft, greasy-feeling green surface, relatively low hardness, and a pale streak; it should not scratch glass reliably.