igneous
Snowflake Obsidian
Volcanic Glass with Cristobalite Inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, black color with white snowflake-like radial clusters, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, black color with white snowflake-like radial clusters, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapidly cooling felsic lava where the partial crystallization of minerals like cristobalite creates the distinct snowflake patterns over geological time.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts, tumbled stones, ornamental carvings, and holistic crystal healing practices.
Geological facts
The white patches are actually clusters of needle-like cristobalite crystals growing within the volcanic glass matrix.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its jet-black background contrasting with distinct white snowflake patterns; found globally in areas of recent volcanic activity.
