mineral

Likely tektite (impact glass), possibly Muong Nong-type indochinite

Natural impact glass; silica-rich glass, typically ~70–80% SiO₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely tektite (impact glass), possibly Muong Nong-type indochinite
Scientific name: Natural impact glass; silica-rich glass, typically ~70–80% SiO₂
Category: mineral
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $10–$75 for a common small specimen; unusual shapes, verified locality, or larger pieces may sell for $100–$500+.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Irregular, aerodynamic-looking dark brown-to-black body with glossy conchoidal fracture and locally pitted or flow-textured surfaces; noncrystalline, hardness about 5.5–6.5 Mohs, specific gravity roughly 2.3–2.5, and no cleavage. The specimen appears naturally weathered or partly polished, though identification from one image is tentative.

Formation & geological history

Formed when a large meteorite impact melted and rapidly quenched terrestrial sediments, producing glass. If an indochinite, it likely formed during the Australasian impact event about 0.79 million years ago; exact provenance requires chemical testing.

Uses & applications

Collected as an impact specimen and sometimes used in jewelry or cabochons; it has little industrial use compared with manufactured glass.

Geological facts

Tektites are distinct from obsidian because their chemistry reflects impact-melted surface sediments and they commonly contain flow lines, bubbles, and aerodynamic shapes.

Field identification & locations

Look for low density, conchoidal fracture, fusion-flow textures, and lack of mineral crystals; verify with specific gravity, microscopy, and elemental analysis. Common examples occur in Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America.