igneous
Snowflake Obsidian
Obsidian with Cristobalite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5-5.5. Black with white or gray snowflake-like patches. Vitreous luster, amorphous structure, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5-5.5. Black with white or gray snowflake-like patches. Vitreous luster, amorphous structure, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms from rapidly cooling felsic lava with high silica content. The 'snowflakes' are radial clusters of cristobalite formed during partial crystallization.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts for cabochons, carvings, and tumbled stones in jewelry.
Geological facts
Historically used for tools and arrowheads. The cristobalite inclusions are a high-temperature polymorph of quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive black background with white radial snowflake patterns and glassy texture. Commonly found in areas with past volcanic activity like the western US.
