Rock Identifier
Green Obsidian Sphere (man-made glass) (Vitreous Silica with Chromium/Iron additives) — mineralogical simulant
mineralogical simulant

Green Obsidian Sphere (man-made glass)

Vitreous Silica with Chromium/Iron additives

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Deep translucent green. Luster: Vitreous/glassy. Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline). Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture. Contains visible internal bubbles (gas inclusions) indicative of synthetic origin.

Hardness
5-6 Mohs
Color
Deep translucent green
Luster
Vitreous/glassy
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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Deep translucent green. Luster: Vitreous/glassy. Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline). Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture. Contains visible internal bubbles (gas inclusions) indicative of synthetic origin.

Formation & geological history

Primarily industrial production via smelting silicates with coloring agents. While natural obsidian exists (fast-cooling lava), vibrant transparent green like this specimen is almost exclusively man-made glass (often sold as 'Andara' or 'Green Obsidian').

Uses & applications

Used for decorative spheres, crystal healing, metaphysical purposes, and as a low-cost gemstone simulant.

Geological facts

Many 'Green Obsidian' pieces on the market are actually byproduct slag from glass manufacturing or intentionally created glass. True natural green obsidian is extremely rare and usually appears much darker (almost black) unless held directly to a strong light.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for spherical gas bubbles and a lack of natural mineral inclusions. In the field, look for conchoidal (shell-like) fractures typical of both natural and man-made glass.

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