Serpentinite
A variety of Metamorphic
What is Serpentinite?
Serpentinite is so-named because its surface is often scaly in appearance, like a serpent. The rock often takes on a handsome dark green appearance, similar to some types of jade. Some varieties of serpentinite are easily carved and take a polish well, so they are used decoratively for everything from jewelry to statuettes to buildings. This is the state rock of California.
Uses & Applications
Serpentinite is easily carved, making it an excellent rock for creating small artifacts, trinkets, and gemstones. Serpentinite is also a major source of asbestos, a once popular material for building insulation, paint filler, and other construction materials that has fallen out of use due to its linkage with lung cancer.
Discover Values
Serpentinite Market Value Calculator
Estimate the market value of Serpentinite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.
Serpentinite Localities Map
See where Serpentinite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Serpentinite
Serpentinite can form from olivine via several reactions. Olivine is a solid solution of forsterite, the magnesium-endmember, and fayalite, the iron-endmember.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Harm Reason: Serpentinite in powdered form can be toxic due to its Chrysotile Asbestos content.
- ⚠️Soil cover over serpentinite bedrock tends to be thin or absent. Soil with serpentine is poor in calcium and other major plant nutrients, but rich in elements toxic to plants such as chromium and nickel.
- ⚠️How to prevent the risks of Serpentinite?
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green, black, brown, etc.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3.5
- Density
- 2.5 - 2.62 g/cm³
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