Serpentinite (ser-PEN-tinite) is a heavy, greenish metamorphic rock that forms by hydration, or serpentinization, of deep oceanic rocks. It is found on land only where pieces of oceanic plates escaped subduction and were accreted against the upper plate.
Unless otherwise indicated, these photos are from California, where serpentinite is widespread (and indeed is the official state rock).
- Serpentinite from 'Earthquake Beach'A roiling rock
- Serpentinite from Idria Ultramafic BodyA striking exposure
- Serpentinite, Ring Mountain PreserveClothed in lichen
- Serpentinite Vein, Lake BerryessaWith fibrous minerals
- Serpentinite DeformationFrom an Eastern subduction scar
- Verd Antique or Serpentine MarbleGreen marble
- Bastite, Serpentinitized PyroxenePyroxene remnants
- Vermont SerpentiniteAn eastern example
- Serpentinite Hand Specimen, Lake BerryessaIn repose
- Serpentinite Hand Specimen, Sierra NevadaA dark beauty
- Light and Dark Serpentinite, Sierra NevadaTwo ends of the color range
- Serpentinite, Feather River Ultramafic ComplexRoadside exposure
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