###### Abstract  
In this study, the neutron and gamma radiation-shielding properties of serpentinites from the Guleman ophiolite complex were investigated, and results were evaluated in comparison with rare earth element (REE) content. The linear and mass attenuation coefficients (LAC and MAC), half-value layer (HVL), mean free path (MFP), and effective atomic numbers (Z\({}_{\text{eff}}\)) of serpentinite samples were experimentally measured in the energy range of 80.99-383.85 keV. Theoretical MAC values were calculated. Additionally, fast neutron removal cross-sections, as well as thermal and fast neutron macroscopic cross-sections, were theoretically determined. The absorbed equivalent dose rates of serpentinite samples were also measured. The radiation protection efficiency (RPE) for gamma rays and neutrons were determined. It was observed that the presence of rare earth elements within serpentinite structure has a significant impact on thermal neutron cross-sections, while crystalline water content (LOI) plays an influential role in fast neutron cross-sections. Moreover, it has been observed that the concentration of gadolinium exerts a more substantial influence on the macroscopic cross-sections of thermal neutrons than on those of fast neutrons. The research results reveal the mineralogical, geochemical, morphological and radiation-shielding properties of serpentinite rocks contribute significantly to new visions for the use of this naturally occurring rock as a geological repository for nuclear waste or as a wall-covering material in radiotherapy centers and nuclear facilities instead of concrete. rocks exhibit high performance in gamma ray shielding. Structural H\({}_{2}\)O plays a significant role in the attenuation of fast neutrons and is prevalent in hydrous minerals such as amphibole, muscovite, or serpentine [5], as well as in certain types of concrete. Carbon additives are effective for fast neutron attenuation, and this property can be observed in concrete mixtures containing boron or colemanite minerals [6; 7; 8; 9]. The quantitative analysis of rare earth elements and radioactive elements present in natural minerals or rocks provides critical data regarding toxic element content and the potential usability of these materials [10]. In this context, the development of new materials is of great importance for addressing current challenges. These new materials should be environmentally friendly, possess high mechanical strength, and offer optimized radiation shielding. Therefore, determining key radiation-attenuation parameters--such as LAC, MAC, HVL, TVL, MFP, Z\({}_{\text{eff}}\), and N\({}_{\text{eff}}\)--is essential to evaluate their interaction with X-rays or gamma rays. Since these radiation-attenuation parameters define the interaction between a substance and X- or gamma rays, they are frequently used in radiation-protection applications. Knowing the mass attenuation coefficient of a substance is crucial, as it (\(\mu/\rho\)) provides a measure of the average number of photon interactions occurring when the photon encounters the material. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of natural minerals as raw materials for concrete and cement production. Durable natural minerals such as serpentine, which can be used as radiation-shielding materials, are abundant in nature. These minerals offer significant advantages, including reduced cement consumption in concrete, lower costs, and decreased CO\({}_{2}\) emissions. Moreover, the potential to construct thinner shielding walls with such materials contributes to reduced concrete usage, energy savings, and conservation of raw materials. [PERSON] et al. [11] conducted XRD, XRF, flexural strength, and water-absorption tests on serpentine aggregates and stated that serpentine waste can be beneficial in production of building materials and may also offer environmental advantages. Several studies have investigated the radiation-shielding properties of various igneous and ultramafic rocks. [PERSON] et al.