Rock Identifier
Tektite (Natural impact glass) — meteorite
meteorite

Tektite

Natural impact glass

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, typically dark brown to black in color, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, and exhibits distinctive deep surface sculpturing or flow lines.

Identified More meteorite →
Explore Tektite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, typically dark brown to black in color, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, and exhibits distinctive deep surface sculpturing or flow lines.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the melting of terrestrial rocks during hypervelocity meteorite impacts, subsequently ejected into the atmosphere and solidifying before returning to Earth.

Uses & applications

Prized by collectors, used in lapidary work, and utilized in metaphysical jewelry.

Geological facts

Despite their extraterrestrial association, tektites are actually composed of melted Earth material rather than space rock.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive glassy texture, lack of crystalline structure, and aerodynamic shapes; frequently found scattered across vast impact strewn fields.