meteorite
Tektite (Indochinite)
Impactite (Natural Glass)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Black, dark green or brown in thin sections; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black, dark green or brown in thin sections
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Black, dark green or brown in thin sections; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); 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 cooled rapidly into glass. This specimen belongs to the Australasian strewn field, dated to approximately 790,000 years ago.
Uses & applications
Primarily used by collectors, in metaphysical practices, and occasionally faceted or carved for unique jewelry pieces.
Geological facts
Tektites are unique because they contain almost no water (0.005%), far less than any volcanic glass like obsidian. The Indochinite strewn field is the largest on Earth, covering parts of Southeast Asia and Australia.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its pitted, aerodynamically sculpted surface (regmaglypts) and lack of crystals. Found across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia). Collectors look for aerodynamic shapes like teardrops or buttons.
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