metamorphic
Tumbled serpentine
Serpentinite; chiefly antigorite, lizardite, and chrysotile Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically olive-green to yellow-green with a waxy, greasy luster and subtle fibrous or mottled banding; hardness about 2.5–4 Mohs, poor cleavage, and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.6. The smooth rounded surface indicates tumbling and polishing.
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Physical properties
Typically olive-green to yellow-green with a waxy, greasy luster and subtle fibrous or mottled banding; hardness about 2.5–4 Mohs, poor cleavage, and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.6. The smooth rounded surface indicates tumbling and polishing.
Formation & geological history
Forms when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite are hydrated during hydrothermal alteration, commonly along oceanic crust and fault zones; ages range from Precambrian to modern tectonic settings.
Uses & applications
Used as ornamental stone, carvings, cabochons, beads, and decorative tiles; historically used for architectural facing, though chrysotile-bearing material requires caution because of asbestos risk.
Geological facts
Serpentine is a mineral-group name, while serpentinite is the rock; its green color results largely from iron-bearing alteration minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its low hardness, waxy feel, green coloration, and often darker veins or fibrous patterns; common sources include California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and the Ural Mountains. This specimen is consistent with common tumbled serpentinite, though exact identification requires testing.
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