With its silky sheen, mottled green-grey color and mysterious look, serpentine gemstone jewelry was named for its resemblance to snakeskin and has been turning heads for centuries. Whether you’ve spotted serpentine at a jewelry store or received a piece as a gift, this stone has more layers than you might expect. Here, we'll define serpentine jewelry, explore what makes it so captivating, its variations, and why it might deserve a spot in your collection.
What is serpentine?
Serpentine is derived from Serpentinite, a metamorphic rock used in jewelry to make beads, pendants and statement pieces for a very long time. Serpentine minerals have a crystal structure made up of tiny building blocks of silicon and oxygen. These blocks link together in specific patterns, giving the stone its characteristic scaly, greasy texture reminiscent of snakeskin.
Serpentine isn't just one mineral; it's a group of related mineral species displaying unique colors, patterns and compositions. Most stones feature spotty coloration, often green with white marbling or dark inclusions. Because of its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale (typically between 3 and 6), a serpentine stone isn’t always easy to polish and can be prone to surface scratches. While serpentine gemstones make for visually striking jewelry, they have also been used for ornamental carvings, architectural details and even spiritual or healing practices throughout history.
How is serpentine formed?
Serpentine forms deep beneath the Earth's surface where tectonic plates meet and interact, especially where one plate is forced beneath another. Magnesium-rich rocks, like peridotite, are often found in these environments. When water seeps into the cracks of these magnesium-rich rocks, it starts a slow, powerful chemical reaction called serpentinization. In this process, water combines with minerals in the rock, transforming the original dense, hard peridotite into softer, greener serpentine minerals. This process happens under intense pressure and relatively low heat (by geological standards).
Where is serpentine found?
Serpentine is typically formed where tectonic plates meet, so it would make sense that serpentine is found where intense geological activity has taken place. These places can include mountain ranges, volcanic island chains and areas where the ancient ocean floor has been pushed up onto land. Because serpentine is formed below the Earth’s crust, it must find its way closer to the surface to be discovered. As the rock forms, it becomes less dense (due to water absorption) and more buoyant, allowing it to rise through surrounding denser rock. Its soft, slippery nature also allows it to move easily through faults at plate boundaries, where it can be pushed or squeezed up to the surface.
With the necessary conditions for serpentine stone formation found abundantly around the world, serpentine has been discovered in many different countries, including Afghanistan, Russia, the United States, Madagascar, the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, the Congo, India, Greece, New Zealand, Canada, Austria, Pakistan, China, Brazil, Italy, South Africa and Australia.
History of serpentine jewelry
A variety of cultures used Serpentine jewelry not only because it is an intriguing gem, but because it was also believed to bring certain benefits to its wearers. Serpentine dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was carved into pendants, charms, tokens and amulets, and its green hue was often associated with fertility, protection and rebirth.
In China, serpentine has been used for thousands of years in art and jewelry because it is ideal for intricate carvings thanks to its overall softness. Native American tribes used serpentine in crafting tools and ceremonial objects, and medieval Europeans used the stone in religious artifacts and royal jewelry. Serpentine (specifically Cornish serpentine) was very popular in Victorian-Era Britain, carved into cameos, beads and brooches. It was also embraced in DIY arts and crafts jewelry making in the early 1900s, typically set in silver.
Often mistaken for jade due to its rich green tones, non-jewelry uses of serpentine have existed for centuries, finding its way into ancient architecture, where it was used in columns, floor tiles and decorative elements. While not as popular as in centuries past, serpentine is still cherished today for its unique appearance and rich cultural history.
Meaning and symbolism
Serpentine has long been associated with transformation, healing and spiritual growth. Often sought out for its deeper significance, the serpentine gemstone is believed to help clear blocked energy, promote inner peace and protect against negative influences. Its snake-like appearance connects it to rebirth and the shedding of old layers, both physical and emotional. It generally symbolizes wisdom, grounding and a connection with nature.
Variations of serpentine
It’s not always easy to define serpentine, as it isn’t a single mineral but a subgroup of related minerals that form under similar conditions. These minerals share common characteristics, like being rich in magnesium and having a silky or waxy texture. However, they differ in crystal structure, color and use. The most recognized varieties within the serpentine group include:
Antigorite
Antigorite often occurs in smooth, silky shades of green. It is commonly used as a decorative stone due to its increased durability and ability to be polished.
Lizardite
Lizardite is typically composed of very small, tightly packed particles that create a scaly appearance resembling reptile skin (hence the name)! Lizardite is usually soft and pale green, often with a yellow tint, and is one of the most common forms of serpentine.
Chrysotile
Made up of tiny, thread-like fibers, chrysotile is best known as the primary mineral form of asbestos. While historically used for insulation and fireproofing purposes, its use is significantly limited today due to health concerns. Unlike chrysotile, other forms of serpentine, such as antigorite and lizardite, are not considered hazardous to humans.
Bowenite
A hard, compact type of serpentine, bowenite (also known as Australian Jade) is often bright green or bluish-green. Prized in jewelry and carving, bowenite is sometimes confused with jade because of its translucent quality. It has been used in tools and ornamental objects for hundreds (if not thousands!) of years. It is considered a semi-precious gemstone in many cultures.
Williamsite
This unique variety of serpentine is quite translucent. It often appears in a vivid apple green shade, sometimes spotted with black inclusions. It’s soft and smooth, making it a favorite material for carving beads, cabochons (smooth, round, facet-less gemstones, typically with a flat back) and other ornamental pieces.
These variations are not only geologically distinct but also aesthetically unique, often coming in a wide range of colored gemstones:
Green serpentine
Green is the most iconic and common serpentine color, ranging from deep forest hues to bright jade-like tones (but more affordable and easier to work with!). Used often in carvings, sculptures and jewelry, this green serpentine color is caused by the presence of iron and nickel.
Blue serpentine
Blue-toned serpentine is quite rare and highly valued by collectors and artisans. Depending on the mineral composition, these shades can range from subtle blue-grey to deeper, more vivid hues. The calming, sea-like tones make blue serpentine a favored choice for unique jewelry and decorative pieces.
Red serpentine
Red serpentine is also relatively uncommon, occurring when iron content is higher or when the stone is exposed to oxidation over time. These pieces often display earthy, red tones, creating a distinct contrast against their commonly found green or black inclusions. The red serpentine color is sought after for its dramatic look and symbolic energy in spiritual or healing practices.
Caring for serpentine
Because serpentine is a relatively soft stone, it requires gentle handling to keep it looking its best. Avoid exposing your serpentine jewelry to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners or sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking or surface damage.
To clean serpentine stones, simply use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or a very mild soap solution with lukewarm water. Gently wipe the surface and dry it thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth. Never soak the stone or scrub it with abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as this can dull its finish or scratch the surface.
Proper storage is also key. Keep your serpentine pieces in a separate pouch or fabric-lined box to avoid contact with harder gemstones or metals that could cause scratches. If you wear your piece often, give it a quick visual check from time to time. If you notice any loose settings, surface wear or dullness, consider taking it to a jeweler for professional cleaning or servicing to maintain its structure and shine.
Lastly, if you’re purchasing a new serpentine gemstone, consider choosing a piece with a gemstone certification, which details the stone’s specific qualities and authenticity. However, remember that gemstone certifications aren’t quite as common for serpentine as for precious gemstones like diamonds and emeralds.
Insure your serpentine jewelry with Jewelers Mutual
Whether your jewelry is made of green, blue or red serpentine, its delicate nature and unique beauty make serpentine jewelry a great candidate for a personal jewelry insurance policy from Jewelers Mutual. While many people use homeowners insurance to insure their jewelry, there are potential drawbacks to that option compared to personal jewelry insurance. Check the rate to insure your valuable pieces from Jewelers Mutual by clicking the button below.
