Mineralogical characteristics
Serpentine is a group of hydrated silicates comprising four main types (chrysotile, antigorite, lizardite and amesite). The appearance of the different varieties of serpentine is similar. Depending on each variety, it may be rich in magnesium, iron, aluminum, manganese, nickel, lithium, zinc or calcium.
The name serpentine refers to the spots it presents, which resemble snake skin. It can have green, yellow, white, bluish and grey tones.
Serpentine is considered a secondary mineral, formed by the alteration of other minerals, such as olivine, pyroxene or amphibole. It appears in areas of regional metamorphism.
Deposits
Canada, China, United States, South Africa, Afghanistan, England and Italy.
Therapeutic properties
Serpentine is a mineral that encourages grounding into the earth and spiritual exploration. It activates psychic ability and helps recover ancient wisdom and memories. It works on the 4th chakra (heart) together with the corresponding minerals.
Serpentine is considered a cleansing stone, both physically by cleansing the body and energetically through the chakras.