Mineraloid
Tektite
Tektite (high-silica natural glass)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Black, dark brown, or olive green; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black, dark brown, or olive green
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Black, dark brown, or olive green; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Formed from terrestrial debris ejected into the atmosphere during a high-energy meteorite impact. The material melts upon impact and cools rapidly while falling back to Earth. Known strewn fields date from 700,000 to 35 million years ago.
Uses & applications
Used primarily by collectors and in metaphysical jewelry. Historically used by ancient cultures for tools or amulets.
Geological facts
Tektites contain very little water (averaging 0.005%), which is much lower than volcanic glass like obsidian. They are often found in specific 'strewn fields' such as the Australasian, Central European (Moldavites), and North American fields.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its pitted, aerodynamically sculpted surface ('regmaglypts') and glassy, translucent appearance when held to light. Found in specific geographic strewn fields rather than random outcrops.
