mineral
Tektite (Indochinite)
Tektite (Natural Glass, SiO2 + Al2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Black (appearing bottle-green or brown on thin edges); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Black (appearing bottle-green or brown on thin edges)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Black (appearing bottle-green or brown on thin edges); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Formed from terrestrial debris ejected into the atmosphere during a meteorite impact and rapidly cooled into glass. This specific Indochinite variety is part of the Australasian strewn field, dated back approximately 780,000 years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative collector specimens, in metaphysical jewelry, or for scientific research regarding impact events.
Geological facts
Tektites contain almost no water (0.005%), which is much lower than terrestrial volcanic glass like obsidian. The 'Indochinite' variety is the most common type found on Earth and is characterized by its pitted, flow-textured skin.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for a pitted, 'melted' surface texture and conchoidal (shell-like) fracturing. Common locations include Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of China. Unlike obsidian, it lacks phenocrysts (small crystals) and is typically very dark.
