The most obvious physical properties of serpentine are its green color, patterned appearance, and slippery feel. These remind the observer of a snake and that is where the name “serpentine” was derived.
Serpentine is also known for its translucent diaphaneity, waxy luster, ease of being cut into shapes, and its ability to accept a polish. These properties make it a popular gemstone, architectural material, and ornamental stone.
Last is serpentine’s ability to resist the transfer of heat. That makes it a valuable insulator. Fibrous varieties of serpentine, such as chrysotile, have been used to make asbestos, which has many industrial uses. Its use today is limited because the fibers have been associated with respiratory disease.
| Physical Properties of Serpentine | |
| Chemical Classification | Silicate |
| Color | Usually various shades of green, but can be yellow, black, white, and other colors. |
| Streak | White |
| Luster | Greasy or waxy |
| Diaphaneity | Translucent to opaque, rarely transparent |
| Cleavage | Poor to perfect |
| Mohs Hardness | Variable between 3 and 6 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.5 to 2.6 |
| Diagnostic Properties | Color, luster, fibrous habit, hardness, slippery feel |
| Chemical Composition | (Mg,Fe,Ni,Al,Zn,Mn)2-3(Si,Al,Fe)2O5(OH)4 |
| Crystal System | Most serpentine minerals are monoclinic. |
| Uses | A source of asbestos, architectural stone, ornamental stone, gem material. |