Libyan Desert Glass
Impactite (vicar Silica glass) · Collector Mineral / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline glass structure); lacks internal repeating lattice
Mineral Group
Tektites/Impactites (Natural Glass)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon dioxide) with trace impurities like Fe2O3, Al2O3, and TiO2
Formation Process
Meteoritic impact approximately 26 million years ago; high-pressure and extreme heat from an airburst or impact melted local quartz sand, which solidified rapidly.
About This Crystal
A translucent to transparent natural glass exhibiting a signature pale straw or lime-yellow color. It features a waxy to vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture patterns on the surface, and often contains internal bubbles, streaks, or dark brownish-red inclusions (lechatelierite or cosmic dust).
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale yellow to greenish-yellow; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.21; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Strong dull-green to yellow under Shortwave UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.46 (Isotropic); Birefringence: None (singlely refractive); Optical phenomena: Occasional fluid inclusions or schlieren (swirls) resulting from the cooling process.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Great Sand Sea, Western Egypt (Libyan Desert boundary)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7. Toughness is relatively low due to its glassy nature; it is prone to chipping if subjected to hard impact.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning. Store separately from harder stones like sapphire or diamond to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Rare (Limited geographic occurrence); Value is determined by clarity, color intensity, and weight. Larger, transparent pieces with minimal wind-blown sand erosion command higher prices.
Special Characteristics
Contains lechatelierite (high-temperature silica glass) and occasionally microscopic traces of the actual meteorite (iridium spikes), confirming its extra-terrestrial origin impact.
Lore & History
Used by ancient Egyptians; a scarab carved from Libyan Desert Glass was found at the center of Tutankhamun's pectoral jewelry. Metaphysically, it is associated with the solar plexus chakra and believed to offer protection and manifestation energy.