Tektite Glass Beads

Frequently asked questions

• What is tektite?

  Tektite is a natural glass formed by meteorite impact. When a large meteorite struck the Earth, the impact energy melted terrestrial rock and ejected molten material into the upper atmosphere; that molten ejecta cooled as it fell, solidifying into the dark glassy fragments collectively called tektite. The composition is primarily silicon dioxide with aluminum oxide and trace metal oxides. Tektite is chemically similar to obsidian but fundamentally different in origin — obsidian is volcanic; tektite is impact-derived.
• Where does tektite come from?

  Tektite is found in a handful of strewn fields scattered around the globe, each tied to a specific ancient meteorite impact. Black tektite beads in the commercial trade are overwhelmingly sourced from the Southeast Asian portion of the Australasian strewn field — predominantly Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and southern China — and are marketed as indochinite. Other strewn fields include the Czech Republic (moldavite, the bottle-green variety), the Ivory Coast in West Africa, and North America. Specific origin should be disclosed — ask before buying if it isn't specified.
• Is tektite the same as moldavite?

  Moldavite is a tektite, but most tektite is not moldavite. Moldavite specifically refers to the bottle-green tektite from the Ries crater impact in Bavaria roughly 15 million years ago, scattered across what is now the Czech Republic. It is single-source, limited-supply, and carries a scarcity premium. Black tektite from the Southeast Asian strewn field is a different impact origin, a much larger supply, and a different price tier. Both are impact glass; they are not interchangeable in the market.
• Is tektite dyed or treated?

  No. Tektite is sold natural — no dye, no heat, no stabilization. The deep black color and glassy surface are intrinsic to the material. The only processing is the cutting and polishing that turns raw nodules into calibrated bead rounds.
• How durable is tektite for daily wear?

  Mohs 5.5–6.5. Tektite is a glass, and like any glass bead it can chip or fracture on hard impact. Suitable for necklaces, earrings, and bracelets with normal care; not the first choice for rings, where impact exposure is highest. Clean with mild soap and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonics and steam cleaning, which can stress micro-fractures common to glass materials.