Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when felsic (enriched w/lighter elements such as silicon, oxygen, aluminium, sodium, and potassium) lava cools rapidly w/minimum crystal growth. Pure obsidian is usually dark in appearance, though the color varies depending on the presence of impurities. In some stones, the inclusion of small, white, radially clustered crystals of cristobalite (a high-temperature polymorph of silica w/a distinct crystal structure) in the black glass produce a blotchy or snowflake pattern. This is known as snowflake obsidian. We are offering a carving of two snowflake obsidian owls that perch securely onto a large Brazilian quartz cluster. The owls stands 5.5" and 6.5" tall and have cast metal talons that are pegged and fit into holes drilled into the crystals. The owls have separate stone beaks and inlaid stone eyes. The "snowflakes" in the obsidian make for a nice display and the quartz crystal has a smooth, flat bottom for displaying on included plastic base. Exc.