Where is Serpentinite found?

Serpentinite 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 Serpentinite

Collecting tips

1. Look for Ultramafic Associations. Serpentinite forms from ultramafic rocks, so look for areas known to have peridotite, dunite, or pyroxenite. These are often found in ophiolite sequences, which are fragments of oceanic crust and upper mantle obducted onto continents.
2. Identify Green, Soapy Rocks. Serpentinite is typically green and often has a distinctive greasy or waxy feel. It can be easily scratched with a knife (Mohs hardness 2.5-4).
3. Check for Veining and Shearing. Serpentinization often involves significant volume increase and deformation, leading to characteristic veining (e.g., magnesite, talc, chrysotile) and sheared textures.
4. Be Aware of Associated Minerals. Serpentinite can be associated with chromite, magnetite, talc, magnesite, and sometimes native metals like nickel or platinum group elements.
5. Safety Precautions for Asbestos. WARNING: Some serpentinite rocks contain chrysotile asbestos, a fibrous form of serpentine. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause serious lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. When collecting or handling serpentinite, especially if it appears fibrous or friable, avoid creating dust. Do not cut, grind, or aggressively break samples without proper respiratory protection (e.g., P100 respirator) and ventilation. Wetting the rock can help suppress dust. If unsure, treat all fibrous serpentinite with extreme caution. It is advisable to avoid collecting or disturbing fibrous varieties unless you are a trained professional with appropriate safety equipment.

Quick Check

Color:

Green (various shades), often mottled

Luster:

Greasy, waxy, silky

Streak:

White

Explore Serpentinite