metamorphic

Weathered serpentinite (likely)

Serpentinite; predominantly serpentine-group minerals, commonly lizardite, antigorite, and chrysotile, with possible magnetite and talc

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically olive-green to gray-green with waxy to dull luster, fine-grained texture, and hardness about 2.5–4 Mohs; massive rather than visibly crystalline, with irregular fracture and density around 2.5–2.6. The rounded surfaces indicate natural abrasion or tumbling.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered serpentinite (likely)
Scientific name: Serpentinite; predominantly serpentine-group minerals, commonly lizardite, antigorite, and chrysotile, with possible magnetite and talc
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 per rough common piece; $20–$100+ for attractive polished or collectible specimens.

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 mantle rocks such as peridotite hydrate during hydrothermal alteration, commonly along tectonic plate boundaries and fault zones. The specimens are likely geologically ancient, though their exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, carving material, aggregate, and historically as a source of asbestos-bearing material; attractive pieces may be polished for ornaments. Avoid cutting or sanding unknown serpentinite because some varieties contain chrysotile asbestos.

Geological facts

The green color commonly reflects serpentine minerals and iron alteration. Serpentinite can preserve evidence of oceanic crust and mantle processes and may be weakly magnetic when magnetite-rich.

Field identification & locations

Look for green-gray color, smooth/waxy feel, low hardness, and possible dark veining; a steel nail may scratch it. Common in California, the Appalachian Mountains, New Zealand, Italy, and ophiolite belts worldwide; confirmation requires microscopy or X-ray diffraction.