Mineraloid (Synthetic/Man-made)
Cullet Glass (Strawberry Glass)
Amorphous Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with metallic dopants
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Vibrant strawberry red with translucent to transparent areas; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (none); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.4-2.8
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Vibrant strawberry red with translucent to transparent areas
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Vibrant strawberry red with translucent to transparent areas; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (none); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: ~2.4-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed as a byproduct of industrial glass manufacturing or intentional artisanal smelting. It is not an antique 'geological' age, typically dating from the 20th century to present. It forms as molten waste cools rapidly outside the furnace.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for decorative landscaping, lapidary practice (faceting or cabochons), metaphysical 'crystal' collecting, and aquarium decor.
Geological facts
While it mimics minerals like Rose Quartz or Rhodochrosite, its conchoidal (shell-like) fracture ripples and internal air bubbles confirm it is glass. Red glass often requires gold or selenium to achieve its specific hue.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for 'swirl' marks, spherical air bubbles, and extremely sharp edges. It is often found near old glass factory dump sites or sold in rock shops as 'Andara Crystal' by metaphysical sellers.
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