Obsidian “Silver” from Armenia – Cabinet Specimen as a Unique Piece
This distinctive Obsidian specimen from Armenia displays a dark grey to almost black base colour with a striking silvery-grey sheen. Depending on the angle of the light, flowing, striped and curved structures become visible, giving the surface a lively, almost metallic appearance. The conchoidal fracture surfaces with their characteristic fracture lines and glassy lustre are typical of Obsidian. The specimen weighs approximately 664 g and is offered as the unique piece shown.
Geology & Locality
Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass formed when silica-rich lava cools very rapidly, leaving little time for crystals to develop. This “Silver” Obsidian is distinguished by its characteristic silvery sheen, which is particularly visible on the smooth fracture surfaces and changes with the angle of the light. Armenia has an extensive volcanic history and is well known for its various Obsidian occurrences.
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
Sizes
Description
approx. Sizes in mm/cm
approx. Sizes in INCH
Capsule
Capsule
0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm)
capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm
capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in
TN/mm
Micromount (TN = Thumbnail)
everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in
approx. 0.5–2.5 cm
max. 1 in
Min
Miniature specimen
will not fit a TN or MM box anymore
approx. 2.5–5 cm
approx. 0.2–1.0 in
Scab
small cabinet specimen
approx. one-third to half a hand size
approx. 5–9 cm
approx. 1.0–2.0 in
Cab
cabinet specimen
full hand size
approx. 9–15 cm
approx. 2.0–3.5 in
large Cab
large cabinet specimen
approx. two hand sizes
approx. 15–30 cm
approx. 3.5–6.0 in
very large Cab
very large cabinet specimen
everything larger, no upper limit
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
Abbreviation
Meaning
xl
single crystal, possible with matrix
xls
noticeable crystals
(xl)
embedded or damaged
(xls)
embedded or damaged
MASS
massive and/or amorphous pieces
TYP
type locality of the original description
SWUV
shortwave-UV-reaction
UV
ultraviolet reaction
SC
self-collected
U
unique (single unique piece)
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH Steinslieth 11 D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden