mineraloid
Libyan Desert Glass
Natural Silica Glass (SiO2 with minor iron and titanium)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow or greenish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.21
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Pale yellow or greenish-yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Pale yellow or greenish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.21
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 26 to 29 million years ago during the Miocene epoch by a high-energy meteorite impact or airburst that melted local desert sand in the Great Sand Sea of western Egypt and eastern Libya.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry (faceted or cabochons), archaeological artifacts, and highly valued by meteorite enthusiasts and collectors.
Geological facts
A famous piece of Libyan Desert Glass was carved into a scarab beetle and featured in the center of Tutankhamun's burial pectoral, representing the sun god.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive wind-sculpted (ventifact) shape, lechatelierite inclusions, and frosted exterior. It is found scattered across the desert pavement in the Gilf Kebir region of Egypt.
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