mineral
Sea Glass
Amorphous silicon dioxide (Man-made glass weathered by nature)
Hardness of 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, translucent to transparent pale green color, vitreous to frosted luster, amorphous crystal structure (none), conchoidal fracture with no cleavage, specific gravity around 2.4 to 2.8.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, translucent to transparent pale green color, vitreous to frosted luster, amorphous crystal structure (none), conchoidal fracture with no cleavage, specific gravity around 2.4 to 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed from discarded manufactured glass products (bottles, jars, etc.) that have spent decades tumbling in marine environments, being naturally weathered by wave action, sand, and saltwater.
Uses & applications
Commonly collected for beachcombing hobbies, jewelry making, home decor, and arts and crafts.
Geological facts
True sea glass takes anywhere from 20 to over 40 years of constant tumbling in the ocean to achieve its characteristic frosted appearance and smooth, rounded edges.
Field identification & locations
Found along beaches, lake shores, and riverbeds worldwide. Look for a heavily frosted surface and completely smooth, rounded edges without sharp points.
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