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Serpentinite identification and geology

Serpentinite rock reference specimen

Green, often slippery rock formed by hydration of ultramafic rocks. Contains serpentine group minerals. Texture: Massive to schistose. Rock type: Metamorphic Metasomatic. Grain size: Fine to medium. Parent rock: Peridotite/Dunite. Minerals present: Serpentine antigorite, lizardite, chrysotile, Magnetite, Chromite. Formation: Forms by serpentinization — hydration of olivine and pyroxene in ultramafic rocks at temperatures 200-500°C. Common geological settings: California, Italy, Cyprus, Oman; found along tectonic sutures and in ophiolite complexes. Common look-alikes and related entries: Soapstone, Jade, Chlorite schist.

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Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner
GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:38:47.579501+00:00
Review status
Published; not independently peer-reviewed
  • Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
  • Can you identify my rock or mineral? — U.S. Geological Survey. Identification limitations and routes to in-person professional verification.

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Common questions

What is Serpentinite?
Green, often slippery rock formed by hydration of ultramafic rocks. Contains serpentine group minerals.
How can you identify Serpentinite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Metamorphic Metasomatic; texture: Massive to schistose; grain size: Fine to medium; common minerals: Serpentine antigorite, lizardite, chrysotile, Magnetite, Chromite. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Serpentinite form?
Forms by serpentinization — hydration of olivine and pyroxene in ultramafic rocks at temperatures 200-500°C.
Where is Serpentinite commonly found?
California, Italy, Cyprus, Oman; found along tectonic sutures and in ophiolite complexes.
What is Serpentinite commonly confused with?
Serpentinite may be confused with Soapstone, Jade, Chlorite schist. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.

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