Brown Snowflake Obsidian
A variety of Obsidian
What is Brown Snowflake Obsidian?
A variety of volcanic glass, Brown Snowflake Obsidian is a type of jasper that has been melted by exposure to geothermal heat. Like other forms of Snowflake Obsidian, it is adorned with snowflake or star-shaped patterns that are actually cross-sections of spherical quartz clusters inside the obsidian. The quartz, which grows in needle shapes, is known is Cristobalite.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.450-1.550
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Isotropic
- Dispersion
- 0.01
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Brown Snowflake Obsidian before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Brown Snowflake Obsidian Localities Map
See where Brown Snowflake Obsidian is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Brown Snowflake Obsidian
Obsidian, Cristobalite
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Brown Snowflake Obsidian in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.
- ⚠️Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.
- ⚠️Brown Snowflake Obsidian is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing brown Snowflake Obsidian, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 5.5
- Density
- 2.33 - 2.6 g/cm³
- Luster
- Vitreous
Also Known As
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Brown Snowflake Obsidian FAQs
How do I identify Brown Snowflake Obsidian?
Brown Snowflake Obsidian can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Vitreous luster. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
How hard is Brown Snowflake Obsidian?
Brown Snowflake Obsidian has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the composition of brown snowflake obsidian of Brown Snowflake Obsidian?
Obsidian, Cristobalite