"Spots"
Todd Etsate, Zuni - Horse Fetish Carving

About Serpentine

Serpentine is the state rock of California and one of the most widely used stones in Zuni fetish carving, valued for its smooth texture, durability, and natural range of earthy colors. Found in shades of green, gray, tan, and brown, it can be bi-colored, streaked, mottled, banded or spotted and it often displays subtle variations within a single piece, giving each carving a unique, organic appearance. It has a slippery, snake-like surface (hence the name). Serpentine is said to help one find inner peace, calmness, and a long life; instills in the bearer a respect for the elderly and wards off snake bites.

When polished, serpentine develops a distinctive waxy, satin-like finish that enhances the form of the carving without distracting from it. This quality makes it especially well suited for traditional animal figures, where the emphasis is on strong, balanced shapes rather than intricate surface detail.

Zuni artists frequently use serpentine for carvings of horses, bears, wolves, and other animals, sometimes adding turquoise inlay for eyes or symbolic accents. The stone’s workability allows for clean lines and smooth contours, while its strength ensures that the carving holds up well over time.

Serpentine fetishes are appreciated for their earthy character and timeless simplicity. Each piece reflects both the natural beauty of the stone and the skill of the carver, making it a popular choice among collectors of authentic Native American art.

Read about stones.