igneous
Snowflake Obsidian
Volcanic Glass with Cristobalite Inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, black with white radial cristobalite snowflake patterns, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure.
Identified More igneous →
Explore Snowflake Obsidian in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, black with white radial cristobalite snowflake patterns, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapidly cooling felsic lava where partial crystallization creates cristobalite spherulites.
Uses & applications
Used in ornamental jewelry, tumbled stones, and holistic crystal collections.
Geological facts
The distinctive white patterns are known as spherulites, growing outward from a central crystal seed in the viscous lava.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its jet-black background contrasting with stark white snowflake clusters. Found globally near volcanic regions such as the USA, Mexico, and Iceland.
