mineral
Yellow-green aventurine or serpentine pendant
Most likely serpentine-group mineral (magnesium silicate), possibly quartz-rich aventurine
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPolished, opaque pale yellow-green stone with mottled texture and vitreous-to-waxy luster; typical hardness is about 2.5–4 for serpentine or 6.5–7 for aventurine quartz. No visible cleavage or crystal faces; specific gravity commonly 2.5–2.7.
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Physical properties
Polished, opaque pale yellow-green stone with mottled texture and vitreous-to-waxy luster; typical hardness is about 2.5–4 for serpentine or 6.5–7 for aventurine quartz. No visible cleavage or crystal faces; specific gravity commonly 2.5–2.7.
Formation & geological history
Serpentine forms when ultramafic rocks are hydrothermally altered, generally in ancient oceanic crust and mountain belts; aventurine forms in silica-rich veins or metamorphic rocks. Exact age and identity require hardness, streak, and mineralogical testing.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, pendants, carvings, and decorative objects; serpentine is also used as ornamental stone and occasionally dimension stone. Value is primarily determined by color, pattern, polish, and craftsmanship.
Geological facts
The bright color may be natural or enhanced by dye, wax, or coating. Serpentine should not be confused with jade; visual identification alone cannot reliably distinguish them.
Field identification & locations
Common serpentine sources include California, Canada, Italy, New Zealand, and Afghanistan; green aventurine is widespread in India, Brazil, and Russia. Test inconspicuously with a steel blade: easy scratching suggests serpentine, while quartz-rich material resists scratching.
