Serpentine Value Guide

Serpentine is a metamorphic rock prized for its variegated green, yellow, and brown hues and its historical role in global craftsmanship. From Ancient Roman decorative accents to the Māori pounamu tools of New Zealand, its workability and beauty make it a staple for mineral and artifact collectors.

What affects the value of Serpentine?

• Richness of color and the intricacy of the variegated patterns significantly impact market value.
• Craftsmanship quality, especially in historical items like Māori ornaments or Roman-style carvings.
• Specimen size and the presence of unique mineral inclusions like magnetite.
• The quality of the surface polish and overall preservation of the stone's structural integrity.

How to Identify Serpentine?

• Identify by its characteristic waxy or greasy luster and a distinctively smooth, soapy texture.
• Observe variegated color patterns often featuring inclusions of magnetite or other silicates.
• Test for a relatively low hardness of 2.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, which allows for intricate carving.
• Look for fibrous or massive structures typical of serpentine group minerals like lizardite.

History of Serpentine

Serpentine has been used for centuries in various cultures for its beauty and workability. Ancient Romans used it for decorative purposes, while in New Zealand, the Māori carved pounamu, a type of serpentine, into tools, weapons, and ornaments. Its distinctive appearance has also made it popular in architecture and sculpture throughout history.