meteorite

Tektite

Tektite (meteoritic glass)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: typically black, dark brown, or green. Luster: vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: amorphous (glass). Cleavage: none. Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.

Hardness: 5
Color: typically black, dark brown, or green
Luster: vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 24, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: typically black, dark brown, or green. Luster: vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: amorphous (glass). Cleavage: none. Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the impact of a large meteorite with the Earth's surface, which melts the surrounding rock and ejects the molten material into the atmosphere, where it cools rapidly into glass before falling back to the ground.

Uses & applications

Mainly collected by meteorite and mineral enthusiasts. Sometimes used in jewelry (like moldavite).

Geological facts

Tektites are often found in 'strewn fields' which are specific geographical areas where the impact debris landed. Famous examples include Moldavites (Europe) and Indochinites (Southeast Asia).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy texture, lack of crystal structure, often pitted or aerodynamic surface shapes, and dark color. Common near known impact craters or strewn fields.