mineraloid / anthropogenic (man-made origin)
Green Sea Glass
Amorphous Silica (man-made glass), SiO2 + additive metal oxides
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Pale green (frosted); Luster: Dull/waxy due to hydration surface; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.8
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Pale green (frosted)
- Luster
- Dull/waxy due to hydration surface
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Pale green (frosted); Luster: Dull/waxy due to hydration surface; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed from discarded glass bottles or jars that have been physically and chemically weathered by salt water and sand over several decades (typically 20-50 years).
Uses & applications
Used in artisanal jewelry, mosaic art, beach decor, and as a popular focus for beachcombing hobbyists.
Geological facts
The frosted appearance is caused by the leaching of glass components by salt water, a process called 'hydration' which creates tiny ‘C’ shaped pits on the surface. Pale green is one of the most common colors because it often originates from soda-lime glass used in beverage bottles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its frosted, non-shiny surface and rounded edges found on shorelines. Common in coastal areas near old towns or shipping lanes. Collectors look for 'pitting' to ensure it is genuine sea glass rather than rock-tumbled glass.
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