Serpentine
Hardness: 2 – 5.5 (hardness depends upon it’s varied chemical composition)
Serpentine actually refers to a group of 20 different magnesium iron silicate minerals which could include small amounts of aluminum, chromium, cobalt, manganese, nickel and zinc. Serpentine can also have magnetite inclusions. Serpentine is often green, however it can be also be white or various shades of brown. Throughout its growth, many polymorphs can take place within the serpentine. Chrysotile, an asbestos form of serpentine that has supple fibrous strands, accounts for 95% of the asbestos in U.S. buildings. Our serpentine is a non fibrous (not cancerous) microcrystalline serpentine.
Many years ago, serpentine was considered a highly protective stone, protecting us from dark and invisible forces, magic spells and poison. It was believed that serpentine would explode if it came in contact with poison. People ate, drank and kept their medicine in serpentine bowls and containers.
Serpentine is associated with the Kundalini (the serpent power) inside our body. The Kundalini represents the natural energy and our true desires within our body. It is believed that the power of the Kundalini lies coiled up 3 1/2 times (like a serpent) at the base of our spine.
Serpentine encourages us to try new ventures in our life.
Interesting Tidbits: In the 19th century, asbestos serpentine was found to have fire resistant qualities. As a result, serpentine was used in many material and fabrics. When serpentine grows with calcite or dolomite, it is called serpentinite.
| Serpentine Soothing Stones |
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| Serpentine Tumbles |
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