Comparison · Silicate Minerals
Jadeite vs Serpentine
Jadeite and Serpentine are easy to confuse because both are silicate minerals. Jadeite is harder (Mohs 6.75) than Serpentine (Mohs 3.5), so Jadeite will scratch Serpentine and not the other way round. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Jadeite and Serpentine
- Jadeite is harder (Mohs 6.75) than Serpentine (Mohs 3.5), so Jadeite will scratch Serpentine and not the other way round. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not.
- Luster is different: Jadeite is vitreous while Serpentine is greasy.
- Jadeite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 3.3 versus 2.6 for Serpentine).
- They overlap in green, white, yellow, and black, but Jadeite also comes in purple.
Jadeite vs Serpentine properties
| Property | Jadeite | Serpentine |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Silicate Minerals | Silicate Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 6.75 | 3.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | greasy |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 3.3 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | monoclinic | monoclinic |
| Common colors | Green, White, Lavender, Yellow, Black | Green, Yellowish green, Olive, Black, White |
| Rarity | rare | common |
| Typical specimen value | $20–$15000+ | $5–$250+ |
Which is more valuable?
Jadeite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $600 against $40 for Serpentine, and premium Jadeite can reach $15000 or more.
About Jadeite
Jadeite is a sodium aluminum pyroxene and one of the two minerals known as jade. As a tough, interlocking aggregate it ranges from white to vivid emerald green, and the finest translucent green material is the most prized form of jade.
About Serpentine
Serpentine is a group of green, magnesium-rich silicate minerals that includes antigorite, lizardite, and chrysotile. It commonly occurs as massive, greasy-feeling rock in mottled green tones and is the main component of the rock serpentinite.
Jadeite vs Serpentine FAQ
Is Jadeite the same as Serpentine?
No. Both are silicate minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Jadeite is harder (Mohs 6.75) than Serpentine (Mohs 3.5), so Jadeite will scratch Serpentine and not the other way round. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not.
How can you tell Jadeite from Serpentine?
Jadeite is harder (Mohs 6.75) than Serpentine (Mohs 3.5), so Jadeite will scratch Serpentine and not the other way round. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not. Luster is different: Jadeite is vitreous while Serpentine is greasy. Jadeite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 3.3 versus 2.6 for Serpentine).
Which is harder, Jadeite or Serpentine?
Jadeite is harder: Mohs 6.75 against Mohs 3.5 for Serpentine.
Which is more valuable, Jadeite or Serpentine?
Jadeite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $600 against $40 for Serpentine, and premium Jadeite can reach $15000 or more.
