Tektite
Tektite (Natural Silicate Glass) · Meteoritic Material / Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline); typically occurs in splash-form habits such as buttons, spheres, teardrops, or irregular chunky masses
Mineral Group
Natural Glass / Silicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (60-80%) with Al2O3, FeO, MgO, and Cao; virtually anhydrous (<0.02% H2O)
Formation Process
Impact-related; formed from terrestrial crustal rocks that were melted, vaporized, and ejected into the upper atmosphere by a meteorite impact, then rapidly quenched into glass during re-entry
About This Crystal
Dark, opaque to translucent glass specimen showing characteristic pitted, grooved, or 'sculpted' surface textures. Color is typically black or dark olive-green with a vitreous to resinous luster and occasional internal flow lines
Physical Characteristics
Color: Black or deep brownish-green; Streak: White/None; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to sub-conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.5; Fluorescence: Generally inert
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.48–1.51 (Isotropic); single refraction; no pleochroism; may show unique 'stretched' lechatelierite (silica glass) inclusions under magnification
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Specific strewn fields including Indochina (Indochinites), Australia (Australites), Czech Republic (Moldavites), and North America (Bediasites)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5–6.5; Toughness: Brittle; Glass-like stability but prone to scratching and thermal shock
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and rapid temperature changes; store away from harder gemstones like quartz or sapphire to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Ranges from common (Indochinites) to very rare (Moldavites); value is determined by weight, shape (flanged buttons are premium), and surface texture; generally untreated
Special Characteristics
Aerodynamic ablation shapes; splash-form droplets; distinct absence of water compared to volcanic obsidian; contain microscopic bubbles under high vacuum
Lore & History
Historically used as talismans and tools by prehistoric cultures; traditionally associated with late 20th-century beliefs regarding 'extraterrestrial' energy, protection during travel, and the Third Eye chakra