Serpentine
Serpentine Subgroup (Antigorite / Lizardite) · Decorative Stone and Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Monoclinic (typically found in massive, compact, or fibrous habits)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Phyllosilicates)
Chemical Formula
(Mg,Fe)3Si2O5(OH)4
Formation Process
Metamorphic, specifically serpentinization—an alteration process where ultramafic rocks (like peridotite) react with water at low to moderate temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a tumbled and polished pebble of a smooth, olive-green to yellowish-green color. It exhibits a waxy to greasy luster with translucent to opaque transparency, showing faint lighter veining and subtle internal structural variations typical of serpentinized peridotite.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from olive green to yellow-green and brownish-green; streak is white; cleavage is distinct in antigorite but often obscure in massive forms; fracture is uneven to splintery; specific gravity is approximately 2.5 to 2.6; tenacity is somewhat brittle to tough due to its interlocking microcrystalline structure.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative with low birefringence; refractive index ranges from roughly 1.56 to 1.57; generally displays no strong pleochroism in massive form, though fibrous varieties can show slight variations; non-fluorescent to weakly fluorescent under UV light.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Worldwide, with notable deposits in Russia, USA, China, South Africa, and New Zealand
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness ranges from 2.5 to 5.5 depending on the specific mineral species within the serpentine group (antigorite/lizardite tend to be around 3.5 to 4.5); moderate toughness; sensitive to acids and prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and acidic solutions; store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common; widely available in commercial markets as tumbled stones, carvings, and architectural stone (verde antique); affordable and accessible with value determined by size, polish, and unique patterns.
Special Characteristics
Often features intricate web-like patterns, veining, or inclusions of magnetite and chromite; sometimes substituted for true jade ('New Jade' or 'Oregon Jade'), though significantly softer.
Lore & History
Historically used across many cultures for amulets, carvings, and architectural ornamentation. In crystal healing lore, it is traditionally associated with the heart chakra, emotional clearing, and the stimulation of spiritual exploration, though these are traditional cultural beliefs rather than scientifically proven claims.