Chrysotile, the fibrous form of the mineral serpentine, is the best-known type and accounts for about 95 percent of all asbestos in commercial use. Though valued since ancient times for its resistance to fire, asbestos fibre did not achieve commercial importance until the 19th century. Modern asbestos production began in 1868 with the workings of a mine in Italy, and in 1878 large-scale production from deposits in Quebec began. Production slackened in the late 20th century owing to the health hazards posed by the mineral.
Chrysotile occurs chiefly in association with massive serpentine.
After mining or quarrying, the asbestos fibre is freed by crushing the rock and is then separated from the surrounding material, usually by a blowing process. Shorter fibres are used in such products as paper, millboard, and asbestos -cement building materials. Chrysotile fibre usually has a whitish colour, but fibres of the amphibole minerals may be pale green, yellow, or blue. Asbestos cannot be dyed easily, and the dyed material is uneven and has poor colourfastness. In addition to its resistance to the effects of heat and fire, asbestos is long-lasting and bonds well with many materials, to which it adds strength and durability.