mineral
Libyan Desert Glass
Impactite (High-silica tektite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Pale yellow to canary yellow or greenish-yellow, Luster: Vitreous, Structure: Amorphous (glassy), Specific Gravity: 2.21
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Vitreous, Structure: Amorphous (glassy), Specific Gravity: 2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs), Color: Pale yellow to canary yellow or greenish-yellow, Luster: Vitreous, Structure: Amorphous (glassy), Specific Gravity: 2.21
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 26 to 29 million years ago during a meteorite impact or high-altitude airburst over the eastern Sahara desert. The intense heat melted surface sand into silica glass.
Uses & applications
Used in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a highly sought-after metaphysical and geological collector's item.
Geological facts
A famous piece of Libyan Desert Glass was carved into a scarab for King Tutankhamun's pectoral necklace. It is one of the purest natural silica glasses on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its unique yellow translucency and lechatelierite inclusions. Found exclusively in the Great Sand Sea of western Egypt and eastern Libya.
