metamorphic
Tumbled yellow-green stone, likely serpentine
Serpentine-group minerals, commonly antigorite or lizardite; approximate formula Mg3Si2O5(OH)4
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque pale yellow-green, waxy to dull luster, fine-grained and rounded by tumbling; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, with no visible cleavage and relatively low density (about 2.5–2.6). Identification is tentative from the photograph alone.
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Physical properties
Opaque pale yellow-green, waxy to dull luster, fine-grained and rounded by tumbling; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, with no visible cleavage and relatively low density (about 2.5–2.6). Identification is tentative from the photograph alone.
Formation & geological history
Serpentine forms when magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks such as peridotite undergo hydrothermal metamorphism, commonly during oceanic-plate alteration; ages range from Precambrian to modern tectonic settings.
Uses & applications
Used as ornamental stone, carvings, beads, and occasionally decorative tile; softer pieces are popular as inexpensive tumbled specimens.
Geological facts
Its yellow-green color can resemble jade, but serpentine is generally softer and less dense. Some serpentinite contains fibrous chrysotile asbestos, though a polished pebble is not diagnosable for this feature visually.
Field identification & locations
Common in serpentinite belts worldwide, including California, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, and the Himalayas. A glass-scratch test is unreliable; hardness, density, waxy feel, and association with dark ultramafic rock are more useful.