Serpentine Beads

Serpentine beads are cut from serpentine, a green stone often sold as 'new jade' — valued for its smooth, waxy luster and rich range of green tones.

MaterialSerpentine (magnesium silicate)

OriginWorldwide

TechniqueCut & polished stone

Typical size4–12 mm

EraNatural stone

ColorsGreen, yellow-green, mottled

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What are Serpentine Beads?

Serpentine beads are cut from serpentine, a group of green magnesium-silicate minerals (Mohs hardness about 3–6) with a smooth, waxy luster. Its color ranges from pale yellow-green to deep olive, often mottled or veined in a way that resembles snakeskin — the source of its name. Because it looks similar to jade and is more affordable, serpentine is widely sold as 'new jade.'

Types of Serpentine Beads

Classic green serpentine — olive to apple green.
'New jade' — translucent light-green serpentine sold as a jade alternative.
Bowenite — a harder, gem-quality serpentine.
Often mottled or veined like snakeskin.

Serpentine Beads meaning & symbolism

Serpentine is associated with healing, renewal, and protection, and is often regarded as a grounding, balancing stone.

History & cultural significance

Serpentine has been carved for millennia across China, Europe, and the Americas — used for ornaments, seals, and architectural stone, and frequently as a jade substitute.

Where Serpentine Beads come from

Serpentine is common worldwide, with sources including China, Afghanistan, the United States, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

●Found worldwide

How to identify Serpentine Beads

Serpentine has a smooth, slightly waxy feel and ranges from pale to deep green, often mottled.
It's softer than true jade, so it can scratch more easily.
Sold as 'new jade,' it is serpentine, not nephrite or jadeite jade.
Genuine stone feels cool and shows natural variation.

How they're used

Bracelets and necklaces.
A jade alternative in green jewelry.
Mala and intention jewelry.
Jewelry-making and design.

Buying guide

Serpentine is an affordable, attractive green stone and a popular jade alternative — look for a pleasing color and smooth polish. Remember that 'new jade' is serpentine, not true jade. Choose size and shape and buy by the strand.