Oval green serpentine cabochon, 30–43 × 20–26 mm. Mirror polished convex face, flat back. Color varies from olive green to medium emerald green, with veining and mottling characteristic of the mineral's fibrous-lamellar structure. Hardness 3–4 Mohs: we recommend pendants and non-contact pieces.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Serpentine (magnesium phyllosilicate, serpentine group) |
| Dimensions |
30–43 × 20–26 mm depending on variant (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and Back |
Freeform oval, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
3–4 Mohs — we recommend pendants and protected pieces; not suitable for daily wear rings |
| Origin |
Material acquired from wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Piece Type |
Available in 8 numbered variants |
This specific piece
The color of this serpentine is medium to dark green with lighter veining and transitional areas towards golden yellow. The fibrous-lamellar structure creates distinct color maps depending on the cut angle — no two pieces have the same pattern. The size range 30–43 mm allows you to choose the module that best fits the setting: smaller formats for medium pendants or earrings, larger ones for statement pieces.
How serpentine forms
Serpentine results from the serpentinization of ultramafic rocks (peridotite, dunite) by reaction with water at 300–500 °C. The original olivine and pyroxene transform into phyllosilicates of the serpentine group (antigorite, chrysotile, lizardite). The greens come from traces of iron, chromium, or nickel. Serpentine is often confused with nephrite ("jade") in commerce, although they are completely distinct mineralogical groups.
What settings it works for
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Pendants with bezel in 925 silver or copper — first recommendation; a pendant does not suffer the friction wear of a ring, and the bezel protects the edge.
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Statement earrings — ~30–38 mm formats are ideal for long earrings where deep green is the protagonist.
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Wire wrap — flat back facilitates weaving; preferably for pendants.
Technical note: With 3–4 Mohs, serpentine is not suitable for daily wear rings; reserve for pendants, earrings, or non-contact jewelry.
Serpentine in history
Serpentine has been carved on all continents for millennia. In Neolithic Europe, it was used for axes and amulets; in Mesoamerica, Olmecs and Mayans used it as a substitute for jade in ritual figures. Its name comes from the similarity of its veins to snake scales. In crystal tradition, it is associated with grounding, calm, and serene discernment.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine serpentine
With 3–4 Mohs, a pocket knife scratches it on the unpolished base. The texture under a magnifying glass shows a fibrous-lamellar structure. Nephrite, with which it is confused, has a hardness of 6 and is denser (~3.0 vs ~2.6 g/cm³); it feels colder and heavier to the touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it natural, untreated serpentine?
Yes. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; does not include formal gemological certification.
Can it be used for rings?
Not recommended for daily wear. With 3–4 Mohs, it scratches with everyday objects. Reserve for pendants, earrings, or display jewelry.
What setting is it designed for?
We recommend a closed bezel in 925 silver or copper for pendants and earrings. The bezel protects the edge and minimizes the risk of chipping.
What is the difference between variants?
Each variant is a numbered piece with an exact size and its own color pattern. All are green serpentine with a mirror polish.
Are the measurements exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm, as these are individual freeform pieces.
How is it cared for?
Warm water and neutral soap, dry immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonics, acids, and steam. Avoid contact with abrasive surfaces. More at care for your jewelry.
See collection: cabochons for jewelry. See also lapidary selection.
