igneous
Snowflake Obsidian
Volcanic Glass with Cristobalite Inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale, black color with white snowflake-like radial clusters of cristobalite, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale, black color with white snowflake-like radial clusters of cristobalite, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapidly cooling felsic lava where partial crystallization of minerals occurs, creating distinctive crystal patterns within natural volcanic glass.
Uses & applications
Widely used in ornamental carvings, tumbled stones, jewelry making, and metaphysical healing practices.
Geological facts
The snowflake patterns are formed by the growth of needle-like christobalite crystals as the obsidian devitrifies over millions of years.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its jet-black base and contrasting white snowflake patterns; commonly sourced from the USA, Mexico, and Iceland.
