Serpentinite

3D ModelNoAI

Lithology: Serpentinite consists of olivine and clinopyroxenes in the matrix of the serpentine group minerals (chrysotile, antigorite) and magnetite, which gives the rock its black colour.

Origin: Serpentinization is a low-T metamorphic process in which anhydrous Fe-Mg silicates (pyroxenes, olivines) are hydrated to serpentine minerals. Often magnetite (if sufficient Fe) or brucite (if sufficient Mg is present) is also formed. The simplified reaction of serpentinite formation is: forsterite + water = serpentine + brucite. During reaction a considerable amount of heat (≈290 kJ/kg forsterite). Complete serpentinization leads to a huge increase in rock volume (almost 50 %), a decrease in density (from ~3.3 to 2.7 g/cm3) and a significant change in the rheology, magnetic properties, and porosity of the rock.

Locality: Punta Mesco, Monterosso Al del Mare, Italy

Dimensions:

Inventory No.: 14469

3D model: Tine Bohinc. Description: Mirijam Vrabec