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).
Serpentine has a specific gravity of 2.55 and a refractive index of 1.560–1.571, with a Mohs hardness of 3.0–4.0. It is aggregate.
Physical & Optical Properties
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
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
Related Comparisons
Measurement Guides
Identifying a serpentine? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
Try GemID Free →Studying for the GIA, FGA, or FEEG practical? Serpentine is one of the 130 species in GemID’s drill and exam pool — practice identifying it from its measured properties under timed exam conditions.
Practice exams →