mineral
Sea Glass
Man-made vitreous material (silica-based glass)
Hardness: 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale (similar to quartz); Color: frosted white, clear, green, brown, or rare colors; Luster: vitreous when wet, frosted or matte when dry; Structure: amorphous solid (non-crystalline)
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- frosted white, clear, green, brown, or rare colors
- Luster
- vitreous when wet, frosted or matte when dry
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale (similar to quartz); Color: frosted white, clear, green, brown, or rare colors; Luster: vitreous when wet, frosted or matte when dry; Structure: amorphous solid (non-crystalline)
Formation & geological history
Formed by human-made glass entering oceans, lakes, or rivers and being naturally weathered, tumbled, and smoothed by wave action, sand, and water over decades.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in coastal home decor, crafting, mosaics, and handmade jewelry.
Geological facts
Genuine sea glass requires 20 to 40 years (and sometimes up to 100 years) of tumbling in the ocean to achieve its characteristic frosted appearance and rounded edges.
Field identification & locations
Found along coastlines worldwide, particularly near historical maritime areas, shipwrecks, and old coastal dumps. Collectors often hunt for rare colors like red, orange, and turquoise.
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