igneous
Silver Sheen Obsidian
Volcanic Glass (Silicate glass with microscopic gas bubbles)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, dark black to grey color with a metallic silver chatoyancy, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, dark black to grey color with a metallic silver chatoyancy, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapidly cooling felsic lava where microscopic gas bubbles create a shimmering silver optical effect.
Uses & applications
Widely used for ornamental carvings, decorative figurines, jewelry, and metaphysical healing collections.
Geological facts
The silver sheen is caused by light reflecting off microscopic nano-layers of trapped gas bubbles aligned during the rapid cooling of lava.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its glossy black base color combined with a distinct internal silvery sheen when turned in the light.
