mineral
Libyan Desert Glass
Tektite (high-silica impact glass), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow, honey yellow, or greenish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.21
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Pale yellow, honey yellow, or greenish-yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow, honey yellow, or greenish-yellow; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.21
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 26-29 million years ago (Oligocene) during a high-energy meteoric impact or aerial burst over the Great Sand Sea in the Sahara Desert, which melted the local silica sand into glass.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry (pendants and beads), and as a highly sought-after specimen for meteorite and mineral collectors.
Geological facts
A scarab centerpiece in King Tutankhamun's burial pectoral was discovered to be carved from Libyan Desert Glass, proving its value in ancient Egypt. It is composed of nearly 98% pure silica.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent yellow color, wind-sculpted pitted surface (regmaglypts), and lack of internal heat-tempering marks unlike man-made glass. Found exclusively in the Libyan Desert along the Egyptian border.
