Obsidian Arrowhead

Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Jet black, Luster: Vitreous/glassy, Crystal structure: Amorphous, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.4

Formed as an extrusive igneous rock when felsic lava cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. While the material is millions of years old, this specimen has been worked by humans through a process called knapping.

Historically used for weaponry and tools; modern uses include surgical blades, decorative jewelry, and archaeological collecting.

Obsidian fractures with extremely sharp edges, trailing down to molecular thinness, making it sharper than high-quality steel scalpels. This piece appears to be a side-notched point.

Identify in the field by its distinct glassy texture and conchoidal (shell-like) fracture patterns. Frequently found in volcanic regions such as the American Northwest, Mexico, and Iceland.