Tektite (Indochinite)
Tektite (Natural Silicate Glass) · Meteoritic Material / Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline). Habit: Irregular, pitted, splash-form, or aerodynamically shaped droplets.
Mineral Group
Natural Glass (Impactite)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (approx. 70-75%) + Al2O3, FeO, MgO, CaO, Na2O, K2O
Formation Process
Impact Metamorphism: Terrestrial silica-rich soil or rock is instantly melted by a meteorite impact, ejected into the upper atmosphere, and cooled rapidly during atmospheric reentry.
About This Crystal
Deep black to dark brownish-black, opaque to translucent on thin edges. Features a characteristic pitted, 'sculpted' surface with dimples (cupules) and a vitreous to dull luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Black; Streak: White/None; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.5; Fluorescence: Inert/None.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.48–1.51 (Singly Refractive); Birefringence: None; Transparency: Opaque in mass, translucent brown on thin edges.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Southeast Asia (Indochinite strewn field including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China); forms from terrestrial impact.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 5.5–6.5; Toughness: Brittle; Stability: Stable but sensitive to physical shock and high heat which can cause thermal expansion cracking.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder stones like quartz to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common (specifically Indochinites); Value is based on size, unique 'splash' shapes, and aerodynamic orientation. Prices are generally low ($2–$50) for standard specimens.
Special Characteristics
Surface pitting and flow structures caused by atmospheric ablation; contains extremely low water content compared to volcanic glasses like obsidian.
Lore & History
Historically used in amulets in Southeast Asia. Traditionally associated with the Crown Chakra and believed to facilitate communication with other worlds and spiritual growth due to its extraterrestrial origin story.