meteorite
Tektite (Indochinite)
Tektite (Amorphous silica glass, SiO2 with impurities)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, brownish-black, dark olive green in thin edges; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture, no cleavage; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black, brownish-black, dark olive green in thin edges
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, brownish-black, dark olive green in thin edges; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture, no cleavage; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed from hypervelocity extraterrestrial impact events on Earth. Terrestrial rocks are melted and vaporized upon meteor impact, ejected into the upper atmosphere, cooled rapidly into natural glass shapes, and re-enter Earth's surface as tektites. Most Indochinites originate from an impact approximately 780,000 years ago.
Uses & applications
Popular among rock and meteorite collectors, used in wire-wrapped jewelry, metaphysical and gemstone collections, and scientific research regarding impact structures.
Geological facts
Tektites are not meteorites themselves, but rather natural glass created by meteorite impacts. The word 'tektite' comes from the Greek word 'tektos', meaning melted. Indochinites belong to the Australasian strewnfield, the youngest and largest tektite field on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its jet-black or dark color, pitted/grooved surface texture, lightweight feel compared to metallic meteorites, and translucent brownish edge when held against strong light. Commonly found in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos).
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