
mineral
Sea Glass
Man-made vitreous material / Silicon dioxide
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, typically frosted or weathered surface, vitreous luster when wet, amorphous crystal structure.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, typically frosted or weathered surface, vitreous luster when wet, amorphous crystal structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed from discarded human-made glass that has been naturally tumbled, abraded, and weathered by ocean waves and sand over decades.
Uses & applications
Widely used in coastal jewelry, decorative crafts, and as a popular collectible item for beachcombers.
Geological facts
Genuine sea glass takes anywhere from 20 to over 40 years of continuous wave action in the ocean to achieve its characteristic frosted appearance and rounded edges.
Field identification & locations
Found along the shores of oceans, large lakes, and rivers worldwide, particularly near historic shipping lanes or populated coastal areas.