igneous
Tektite (Indochinite)
Tektite (impactite), primarily high-silica glass (SiO2)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Generally black, but translucent olive-brown on thin edges; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Generally black, but translucent olive-brown on thin edges
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Generally black, but translucent olive-brown on thin edges; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Formed roughly 780,000 years ago during a massive meteorite impact in Southeast Asia. The impact ejected terrestrial silica-rich soil into the upper atmosphere, where it melted, flash-cooled in the vacuum of space, and rained back to Earth as glass droplets.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for gemstone carvings, jewelry (pendants/rings), and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.
Geological facts
Tektites contain almost no water, making them significantly drier than volcanic glass (obsidian). This specific type, the Indochinite, belongs to the largest strewn field on Earth, covering parts of China, Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its pitted, 'dimpled' surface (regmaglypts) and conchoidal fracture. Unlike obsidian, it will not have flow bands and is rarely found near volcanoes. It is common in the gravel beds of Southeast Asia.
