Serpentine

Overview

Serpentine is an earthy, warm green mineral often chosen for deep energetic work that asks us to move with the body, rather than from the head. It is widely used as a supportive stone when exploring kundalini movement, shadow integration, and restorative grounding. The stone's shape, texture and organic tones make it a natural companion for slow medicine practices, garden altars, and anyone who wants a steady, gentle guide through change.

In a retail setting Serpentine is popular for customers seeking heart opening that remains safe and practical, for those who want to wake the body's wisdom without feeling overwhelmed.

What is Serpentine?

Serpentine refers to a group of minerals in the serpentine family, principally magnesium silicate varieties that form in retrograde metamorphic environments. Appearance ranges from waxy, translucent green to dense, mottled stones with veins of contrasting colour. Because 'serpentine' is a broad name, specimens can vary in hardness and composition. Some varieties are called 'new jade' in trade, and historically serpentine has been carved into amulets and talismans in many cultures.

Important safety note: certain serpentine forms can contain chrysotile asbestos. Always avoid inhaling dust from cutting or grinding, and source finished stones from reputable suppliers that test for fibres when necessary.

Spiritual Meaning

Spiritually, serpentine is a medicine of awakening and deep earthness. It supports the slow opening of energetic channels, especially in practices that enkindle kundalini energy. It is often used to welcome previously buried material to the surface in a held, spacious way. Rather than forcing release, serpentine encourages us to make room, to cultivate trust in the body's innate ability to know what to move and when.

Emotional & Physical Associations

• Assists with emotional release, processed gently over time rather than abruptly
• Supports grounding during periods of change, helps translate emotion into embodied action
• Often used alongside breathwork to encourage safe kundalini activation and circulation of vital energy
• Traditionally associated with detox pathways, both energetic and physical, though it is not a replacement for medical care

Element & Zodiac

Element: Earth, with flowing water qualities for emotional movement

Zodiac: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio — useful for people wanting steady bodily insight and slow, sustained change

Hardness & Composition

Family: Serpentine group, variable

Composition: Magnesium silicate minerals, composition varies by variety

Hardness: Typically around 3 to 6 on the Mohs scale depending on variety, handle with care if the piece is softer

Symbolism

Rebirth through slow movement, earth wisdom returned to the heart, the patient uncoiling of inner power.

How to Use Your Serpentine

Kundalini Preparation Ritual

Before attempting kundalini practices, sit quietly with a piece of serpentine at your root, and a small green stone at your heart. Breathe slowly for five to ten minutes, focusing on easing any tension in the lower back and pelvis. Set the intention: 'I open where it is safe to open, I ground what I receive.' Begin with gentle breathwork and only progress if the body feels safe. Use serpentine as a guide, not a shortcut, returning to the stone when sensations become unfamiliar.

Heart and Root Rebalance

Place a serpentine tumbled stone over the lower sternum while seated, breathe into any contraction, and visualise a warm green light settling into both heart and root. Allow at least 10 minutes, journal afterwards about any subtle shifts in mood or sensation. Repeat two to three times per week during transition periods.

Garden or Earth Altar Placement

Serpentine loves earth connection. Nestle a polished piece in a potted plant, or place on an outdoor altar to foster a sense of reciprocity with the land. When working with plant medicine or garden rituals, serpentine can act as a bridge, reminding you to move slowly and listen to seasonal timing.

Gentle Release Bath

For emotional clearing, create a gentle ritual bath. Place serpentine stones on a wooden tray near the tub, light a calming herb such as lavender, and soak while focusing on long, steady breaths. Imagine tension dissolving into the water, then dry the stone and place it on a windowsill to air and recharge. Note: do not place serpentine directly into baths with acidic additives, check the piece first if unsure.

Pairings

• Clear Quartz: clarifies intention, helps organise subtle sensations into conscious steps
• Jade or Nephrite: harmonises heart medicine, deepens slow, embodied healing
• Black Tourmaline: provides strong grounding and protection when opening energetic channels
• Amethyst: supports gentle surrender during inner explorations, encourages safe dreamwork
• Hematite: useful for extra earth anchoring when sensations feel intense

Care & Safety Notes

Serpentine can be softer and more porous than other jewellery stones, so avoid ultrasonic cleaning and harsh chemicals. Clean with a soft cloth and warm water, dry thoroughly. If you plan to cut, tumble or saw serpentine, confirm the variety is free of asbestos fibres and request finished stones from suppliers who test and certify their material. Avoid inhaling dust during any lapidary work.

Integration Checklist

1. Begin with short sessions, five to ten minutes, using serpentine for grounding before deeper energetic practices.
2. Keep a small tumbled serpentine in your pocket during transition weeks, note changes in emotional reactivity.
3. Pair with a grounding black stone when doing active kundalini or breathwork.
4. Use as an altar or garden stone to deepen relationship with earth medicine, rotate location monthly to observe shifts.

Disclaimer

At Crystal Cartel, we honour the long history of crystals being connected to spirituality, symbolism, and personal growth. If you’re interested in exploring these deeper meanings, you can find detailed information in our Crystal Index A–Z.

Please remember, crystals are beautiful natural companions that can inspire, comfort, and symbolise healing journeys, but they are not a replacement for professional help or medical support.