Epidote Vs. Serpentine

Epidote is a popular mineral composed of calcium aluminium iron silicate.^[1] Serpentine is also a popular mineral group and its chemical composition is a group of silicates.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Epidote and Serpentine

For a quick recap of the differences epidote and serpentine:

• For chemical formulas, epidote can be Ca2(Al or Fe)2(SiO4)3(OH) while serpentine can be (Mg, Al, Al, Fe, Fe)2O5(OH)4, Mn)2_3(Si, Ni or Zn.
• In terms of luster, epidote can be dull, pearly, resinous or vitreous while serpentine can be greasy, silky or waxy.
• While both epidote and serpentine can be commonly green, epidote is often brown, red or yellow.
• Epidote's hardness is higher than serpentine - epidote ranges from 6 to 7 and serpentine ranges from 2 to 5 on the Moh's scale.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Epidote and Serpentine

The similarities of epidote and serpentine include:

• Epidote and serpentine both can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
• In terms of crystallography, epidote and serpentine both are monoclinic.
• Epidote and serpentine both streak white.
• Epidote's rarity is similar to serpentine.

Summary of Epidote

Epidote is a mineral that belongs to the sorosilicate group. It is a common mineral that is found in metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary rocks. Epidote is typically green, but it can also be yellow-brown, black or colorless. The mineral has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and has a vitreous to resinous luster. Epidote is commonly found in prismatic or tabular crystal habit and can also occur in massive or granular form.

Summary of Serpentine

Serpentine is a group of minerals that are commonly found in metamorphic rocks. It is typically green in color and has a waxy or oily texture. Serpentine can be identified by its unique color and texture, as well as its tendency to break into small, fibrous pieces. It is also often associated with other minerals, such as olivine and pyroxene.

Table Comparison of Epidote vs Serpentine