Javanese flake obsidian

Javanese flake obsidian is a natural volcanic glass from the island of Java in Indonesia. It is characterized by a dark glassy matrix containing distinctive white to light gray flake-like formations. These structures are composed mainly of tiny cristobalite crystals and form through partial crystallization of the originally homogeneous volcanic glass.

Individual specimens vary considerably in the amount, size and distribution of the light-colored “flakes”. Some pieces contain only a few small formations, while others are densely covered with them. Each specimen therefore displays its own natural pattern.

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How Does Flake Obsidian Form?

Obsidian forms when silica-rich lava cools rapidly. The melt solidifies so quickly that a normal crystalline rock does not form, resulting instead in predominantly amorphous natural glass.

However, obsidian glass is not completely stable over long periods of time. Some parts may gradually begin to crystallize – a process known as devitrification. In certain areas, radially arranged clusters of tiny crystals, most commonly cristobalite, develop and appear in the dark obsidian as characteristic white or gray flakes.

Appearance of Javanese Flake Obsidian

The main glassy mass is most commonly black to very dark gray with a glassy luster. The light-colored spherulites may be small and nearly circular, but they can also be larger, irregular or interconnected. Their contrast with the dark glassy matrix creates the characteristic appearance of flake obsidian.

Obsidian has a characteristic conchoidal fracture and a hardness of approximately 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale. Individual pieces may differ not only in the amount of light-colored structures, but also in shape, surface character and the overall proportion of glassy and partially crystallized material.

Javanese Flake Obsidian from Indonesia

The specimens in this category come from the island of Java in Indonesia. Each piece is offered individually, allowing you to choose a specific specimen according to its size, shape and the character of its natural flake pattern.