Where is Snowflake Obsidian found?
Volcanic glass with spherulites of cristobalite
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Open the appSnowflake Obsidian occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Snowflake Obsidian
United States
Significant deposits are found in the western United States, particularly in Oregon (e.g., Glass Buttes), Utah, Arizona, and California.
Mexico
Known occurrences in various volcanic regions.
Iceland
Found in areas of recent volcanic activity.
Japan
Occurs in volcanic terrains.
Argentina
Deposits are present in volcanic regions.
Canada
Some occurrences in British Columbia and other volcanic areas.
Collecting tips
- Look in Volcanic Areas. Search in regions with past or present silicic volcanic activity, especially near rhyolitic lava flows and domes.
- Identify Glassy Texture. Look for dark, glassy rocks with a conchoidal fracture. The 'snowflakes' will be visible upon closer inspection.
- Check for Spherulites. The defining characteristic is the presence of white, radial, snowflake-like patterns within the dark glass.
- Safety Precautions. Obsidian can have extremely sharp edges due to its conchoidal fracture. Handle with care to avoid cuts. Wear appropriate gloves and eye protection when breaking or shaping it. The cristobalite spherulites are generally stable within the glass matrix and do not pose an inhalation hazard unless the material is crushed into fine dust. Avoid inhaling dust if cutting or grinding.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Black with white 'snowflakes'
- Luster:
- Vitreous (glassy)
- Streak:
- White (due to the amorphous nature and lack of significant chromophores)
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