Serpentine

Serpentine crystal lattice, with sheet silicate structure (CrystalMaker).

Serpentine is a common alteration product of olivine, produced by hydration at low temperatures.

Mg₃[Si₂O₅](OH)₄

Sheet silicate

Crystal system: monoclinic or orthorhombic (-)

Serpentine is commonly very fine-grained. It can be recognised by its textural association with olivine and by its low birefringence and habit.

Colour in plane polarised light: green
Relief: low
Birefringence: 1^st order

serpentine