metamorphic
Tumbled serpentine or chlorite-rich pebble
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite; possibly chlorite or greenstone
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall polished pebble with dark green-gray color, pale cream veining, waxy-to-dull luster, and rounded edges. Typical hardness is about 2.5–4 Mohs; exact composition and specific gravity cannot be confirmed from the image.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Tumbled serpentine or chlorite-rich pebble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Small polished pebble with dark green-gray color, pale cream veining, waxy-to-dull luster, and rounded edges. Typical hardness is about 2.5–4 Mohs; exact composition and specific gravity cannot be confirmed from the image.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed by hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic rocks, especially peridotite, during metamorphism; age depends on its source locality and may range from Precambrian to recent tectonic settings.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, carving material, ornamental aggregate, and collector specimen; some serpentine varieties are cut into cabochons, though they are relatively soft.
Geological facts
Serpentine commonly shows mottled green coloration and pale veins, while chlorite-rich rocks can look similar. Avoid confusing fibrous asbestos-bearing serpentinite with ordinary polished serpentine.
Field identification & locations
Common in ophiolites and metamorphic belts, including California, Vermont, Italy, New Zealand, and Canada. A streak, hardness, density, and mineralogical test are needed for reliable identification; the photograph alone is not definitive.
More like this
