igneous
Snowflake obsidian beads
Obsidian, volcanic glass (predominantly SiO₂), with pale cristobalite/spherulitic inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPolished, dark gray-black glass with contrasting pale snowflake patterns; Mohs hardness about 5–5.5, vitreous luster, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The image shows round beads in jewelry; exact identification from appearance alone is not certain.
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Physical properties
Polished, dark gray-black glass with contrasting pale snowflake patterns; Mohs hardness about 5–5.5, vitreous luster, no cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The image shows round beads in jewelry; exact identification from appearance alone is not certain.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich lava cools rapidly, preventing large crystals from developing; snowflake patterns form as cristobalite crystals grow within the glass during devitrification. Obsidian deposits are geologically young and associated with volcanic regions.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, carvings, and other decorative objects; historically, sharp obsidian was fashioned into cutting tools.
Geological facts
The “snowflakes” are mineral-crystal aggregates, not surface markings. Obsidian is natural volcanic glass rather than a crystalline rock.
Field identification & locations
Look for a glassy luster and pale, branching or clustered inclusions in a dark glassy matrix; common sources include Mexico and the western United States. The specimen appears to be a polished jewelry bead.
