metamorphic
Yellow-green serpentine (likely serpentinite)
Serpentine-group minerals, chiefly antigorite/lizardite: Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically olive, yellow-green to brown with mottled or waxy/greasy luster; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, poor cleavage, fine-grained massive texture, and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.6. The smoothly rounded surface indicates a water-worn or tumbled pebble.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Yellow-green serpentine (likely serpentinite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Typically olive, yellow-green to brown with mottled or waxy/greasy luster; Mohs hardness about 2.5–4, poor cleavage, fine-grained massive texture, and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.6. The smoothly rounded surface indicates a water-worn or tumbled pebble.
Formation & geological history
Forms when ultramafic mantle rocks such as peridotite are hydrated during low-temperature metamorphism, commonly in oceanic crust and subduction zones. Serpentinization is generally Mesozoic to modern in active tectonic belts, though specimens may be much older.
Uses & applications
Used as decorative stone, carvings, beads, countertops, and sometimes ornamental “jade” substitutes; historically used for heat-resistant objects. Avoid dust from cutting, because some serpentinites may contain asbestos-form serpentine fibers.
Geological facts
The yellow-brown color and dark mottling are consistent with iron-rich serpentine and alteration minerals such as magnetite or carbonates. Identification from a photograph is provisional; hardness, streak, and laboratory testing would help distinguish it from jasper or weathered greenstone.
Field identification & locations
Common in California, the Italian Alps, New Zealand, Canada, and many ophiolite belts. A relatively soft feel, waxy luster, green-yellow color, and dark veining favor serpentine over quartz-rich rocks.
More like this
