Mineraloid (Impact glass)
Tektite (specifically Indochinite)
Tektite (Natural silica glass)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, dark bottle green/brown (translucent on thin edges); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black, dark bottle green/brown (translucent on thin edges)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, dark bottle green/brown (translucent on thin edges); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the molten ejecta of terrestrial rock following a high-energy meteorite impact. This specific Indochinite type originated from an impact approximately 780,000 years ago in Southeast Asia (Australasian strewn field).
Uses & applications
Used primarily for gemstone collecting, jewelry (faceted or wire-wrapped), and metaphysical/spiritual purposes (often called 'fire pearls').
Geological facts
Tektites contain almost no water (less than 0.005%), making them much drier than any volcanic glass like obsidian. The pitted surface (regmaglypts) is caused by aerodynamic ablation as the molten material hurtles back through the atmosphere at hypersonic speeds.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for the 'orange skin' pitted surface, conchoidal (glassy) fractures, and lack of bubbles common in slag. Found mainly in the 'strewn fields' of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Collectors should look for aerodynamic shapes like teardrops or buttons.
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