igneous
Snowflake Obsidian (Polished Cabochon)
Obsidian with Spherulitic Cristobalite (SiO2)
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black with grayish-white 'snowflake' spots; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (Volcanic Glass); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 5 to 5
- Color
- Black with grayish-white 'snowflake' spots
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black with grayish-white 'snowflake' spots; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (Volcanic Glass); Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed when felsic lava cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. The 'snowflakes' are inclusions of the mineral cristobalite, which form through a process called devitrification of the volcanic glass over time.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (necklaces, earrings), lapidary arts, decorative carvings, and as a healing stone in metaphysical circles.
Geological facts
Unlike اکثر rocks, obsidian is technically naturally occurring volcanic glass. The 'snowflakes' are internal patterns of radiating needle-like crystals of cristobalite that grew as the glass slowly began to crystallize.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its smooth, glassy texture and distinct white or gray star-shaped patches against a jet-black background. Found globally in volcanic regions like the American West, Mexico, and Iceland.
