This serpent is carved from silver-sheen obsidian, which is purported to increase perception, sharpen senses and intellect, and promote articulate communication. It's supposed to be a protective stone for those with possessive persons in their life or who need help keeping firm boundaries. Regardless of how accurate that all is, it's definitely beautiful and worth having, even just for aesthetics. It is 4" long and 1 1/2" at its widest point. A truly awesome piece worthy of a place of honor in someone's hoard.