Serpentine
Last updated: April 2026
Serpentine is the most common jade simulant in the trade, sold as 'new jade', 'Korean jade', 'Suzhou jade', or simply as jade. Its massive habit, waxy to greasy luster, and green color superficially mimic both jadeite and nephrite. RI is dramatically lower than either jade type (jadeite 1.654–1.688; nephrite 1.600–1.627), making refractometer testing definitive. SG is also significantly lower than jadeite (~3.3) or nephrite (~3.0).
Physical & Optical Properties
RI Range1.560–1.571
SG Range2.44–2.62
SG Typical2.55
Hardness (Mohs)3–4
Crystal SystemMonoclinic
Optic CharacterAggregate
Dispersion0.000
Fluorescence LWInert
Fluorescence SWInert
Chelsea FilterInert
PleochroismNone
ColorsGreen, Yellow Orange, Brown, Colorless
SpeciesSerpentine (Mg₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄)
Key Differentiators
- RI 1.560–1.571 — dramatically lower than jadeite (1.654–1.688) and nephrite (1.600–1.627)
- SG 2.44–2.62 — much lighter than jadeite (3.20–3.36) or nephrite (2.90–3.03)
- Low hardness 3–4 — scratched easily by a steel knife blade
- Waxy to greasy luster; fibrous or mottled texture under loupe
- Commonly sold as 'new jade', 'Korean jade', or 'Suzhou jade'
Treatments
- Dyed (green, lavender — common in trade)
- Wax impregnation (improves luster)
Price Context
Natural — low ($/ct)$1
Natural — high ($/ct)$30
NotePer carat; extremely common ornamental stone; fine carved pieces $10–100; sold deceptively as jade at inflated prices
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
Measurement Guides
Identifying a serpentine? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
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