Serpentine

Serpentine refers to a group of minerals that are usually green in color and are used as a source of magnesium and asbestos, and as a decorative stone. The name is thought to come from 'serpent' as it is often a greenish color. The serpentine group describes a group of common rock-forming hydrous magnesium iron phyllosilicate ((Mg, Fe)3Si2O5(OH)4) minerals; they may contain minor amounts of other elements including chromium, manganese, cobalt and nickel.

Composition and formation

Serpentine is a group of minerals that are usually green in color and are used as a source of magnesium and asbestos, and as a decorative stone. The name is thought to come from 'serpent' as it is often a greenish color. The serpentine group describes a group of common rock-forming hydrous magnesium iron phyllosilicate ((Mg, Fe)3Si2O5(OH)4) minerals; they may contain minor amounts of other elements including chromium, manganese, cobalt and nickel.

In terms of formation, serpentine is formed below the Earth's surface when igneous rocks, such as peridotite and pyroxenite, are altered by water and heat.

Uses

Serpentine has been used since ancient times for a variety of purposes. It is often used as a decorative stone in architecture and art. In addition, it is also used in the production of asbestos, which is used for fireproofing and insulation materials.

Health effects

Exposure to serpentine dust can lead to the development of diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These health risks are particularly high for people who work with serpentine materials, such as miners and stone cutters.

See also

• List of minerals
• Silicate minerals
• Asbestos