01-31-2016 03:24 PM
First time on this board.....
Found this 9-1/2" carved bird that I would like to list. I am hoping someone on this board recognizes the dark green stone. Thank you for looking!
p.s. Do you think this is a parrot?
02-28-2016 12:29 AM
Looks like Cuban serpentine, also known as Verde Serrano.
Serpentine is a green metamorphic rock/marble that is most commonly found in regions of subduction faulting (California Sierras and Italy also have beautiful green serpentines). Some of that white "webbing" in the green is a form of asbestos, iron is also present (giving it is distinctive color). No need to worry about the asbestos content unless you choose to smash this beautiful bird into pieces, releasing asbestos particulates into the air. As is, it is very safe.