Where is Chrysotile found?
Chrysotile (a serpentine mineral)
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appChrysotile occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Chrysotile
Canada (Quebec)
Historically significant deposits, particularly in the Thetford Mines and Asbestos (now Val-des-Sources) regions, were major global producers.
Russia (Ural Mountains)
Large deposits, particularly in the Asbest (Sverdlovsk Oblast) region, remain significant sources.
Kazakhstan
Known for substantial chrysotile deposits.
Brazil
Significant deposits, particularly in the Cana Brava mine.
Zimbabwe
Historically important producer of chrysotile.
USA (Vermont, California, Arizona)
Smaller, historically active deposits, such as the Eden Mills deposit in Vermont.
Collecting tips
- Safety First. NEVER attempt to collect or handle chrysotile asbestos. It is a known human carcinogen. Exposure to airborne fibers can cause serious and fatal diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. If you suspect you have found chrysotile, do not disturb it. Report it to local authorities or environmental agencies.
- Geological Context. Chrysotile is typically found in serpentinite rocks, which are often greenish, massive, and feel somewhat greasy. Look for veins or fibrous masses within these rocks.
- Visual Identification (from a safe distance). Look for silky, flexible, white to greenish-white fibers that can be easily separated. These fibers often occur in parallel bundles within veins.
- Associated Minerals. Often found with other serpentine minerals (antigorite, lizardite), magnetite, chromite, and sometimes talc.
Quick Check
- Color:
- White, gray, greenish-white
- Luster:
- Silky to greasy
- Streak:
- White
Explore Chrysotile
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.