Serpentine
The Coiled Serpent of Awakening
About the stone
A rock made out of any of the minerals in the serpentine group, named after its similar texture and patterning to a snake. These rocks, which are Magnesium and water rich, are formed by Serpentinization, a hydration & metamorphic transformation of ultramafic rock from the Earth's mantle. Commonly known Serpentine rocks include Atlantisite, Infinite, Greenstone and Lizardite. Serpentine has a greasy or waxy luster, opaque transparency, and poor to perfect cleavage. It is usually dark to light green, but may also be yellow, black or white.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Serpentine is a rock or group of magnesium-rich hydrous silicate minerals, such as antigorite and lizardite, with an ideal formula for the group of Mg3Si2O5(OH)4; its exact makeup varies.
- Hardness: 2.5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Usually dark to light green, but may also be yellow, black or white, with a waxy or greasy shine.
- Specific gravity: 2.44-2.62
- Refractive index: 1.560-1.571
Metaphysical data
Serpentine, a green stone with a snake-like pattern formed from the Earth's mantle, has been utilized in metaphysical practices to awaken Kundalini energy, release emotional baggage and encourage compassion.
Awakening and Realigning Energy
- Serpentine is associated with activating Kundalini energy, said to sit coiled like a snake at the base of the spine, and meditation and yoga are thought to help awaken it.
- It is believed to realign the chakras and a person's life path, bringing a sense of direction after periods of drift or confusion.
Emotional Healing
- Serpentine is thought to help a person let go of difficult, sticky and even comfortable emotional baggage, much like a snake shedding its old skin.
- It is said to promote universal love and compassion, softening the heart and encouraging kindness toward oneself and others.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Serpentine is associated with the solar plexus chakra, where it is believed to support personal power, will and the courage to follow one's path.
- It is also linked with the heart chakra, helping the drive for action and the openness of love work together in balance.
Zodiac Associations
- Serpentine is traditionally associated with the sign of Sagittarius, the seeker of truth, whose adventurous spirit matches the stone's themes of awakening.
- It vibrates to the number 8, linked with balance, personal power and the turning cycles of growth and renewal.
Spiritual Growth
- Serpentine is believed to allow ascent to higher consciousness, spiritual awakening and a freedom from ego, and it enhances meditation states.
- It is also thought to aid the retrieval of ancient wisdom and to support the powerful manifestation of desires through focused intention.
Physical Healing
- Crystals are a traditional wellness practice and not a substitute for professional medical advice, and nobody should rely on a stone for a medical problem.
- In crystal tradition Serpentine is thought to support the energy of the spine and the body's energy flow, as a companion to yoga and meditation.
Care and handling
Serpentine ranges from soft to moderately hard and has a waxy luster that scratches and chips fairly easily. Clean polished pieces with a soft cloth and lukewarm water, and avoid acids and harsh chemicals. Some serpentine group minerals, such as chrysotile, are fibrous and can be an asbestos hazard when cut, ground or broken, so do not sand, grind or cut raw serpentine, avoid breathing dust, and wash your hands after handling rough pieces. Do not use it for gem water or elixirs.
Individual experiences with Serpentine vary, and its qualities are traditional beliefs rather than proven facts. Use it mindfully as a symbol of renewal and shedding what no longer serves, and handle it with sensible care.