Photomicrograph of a serpentinite

This photomicrograph shows a serpentinite in a polarizing petrographic microscope. During reaction with seawater serpentine (the grey, "snake-like" minerals) forms what is called a mesh texture around olivine grains. The light colored, round minerals are relict grains of olivine. Field of view is 2.5 mm. Image courtesy of G. Fruh-Green.

Related Links

The Lost City 2005

The Lost City: Serpentinization

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery

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