meteorite

Tektite

Tektite (Meteorite impact glass)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Black to dark brown. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull. Crystal structure: Amorphous (glass). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture. Specific gravity: 2.2-2.8.

Hardness: 5
Color: Black to dark brown
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to dull

Identified September 1, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from terrestrial debris ejected during extraterrestrial meteorite impacts. The material melts, is thrown into the atmosphere, and cools into glass while falling back to Earth. Age varies by strewn field (e.g., Australasian tektites are about 790,000 years old).

Uses & applications

Collected by meteorite and mineral enthusiasts. Sometimes cut or polished for jewelry (e.g., Moldavite, a green variety, is highly prized).

Geological facts

Tektites often have distinctive aerodynamic shapes like spheres, teardrops, dumbbells, or buttons, caused by their flight through the atmosphere while molten. The most common variety shown here is likely an Indochinite.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its glassy texture, lack of crystals, dark color, and pitted surface (regmaglypts). Commonly found in specific 'strewn fields' around the world, such as Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America. Collectors should look for aerodynamic shapes and typical pitted surfaces.