Shiny Black Rocks & Minerals
A shiny black rock is one of the most common identification questions. The shine is the first clue: 12 of the 60 candidates below have a true metallic luster (Anthracite, Chalcocite, and Chromite), while 36 are glassy like broken bottle glass (Obsidian, Rainbow Obsidian, and Augite).
Metallic-looking stones are usually sulfides, oxides or native metals and feel heavy; glassy ones are typically silicates, quartz varieties or volcanic glass. Hardness and streak settle most cases.
Metallic shiny black rocks (12)
Glassy shiny black rocks (36)
Waxy, silky or pearly shiny black rocks (12)
Frequently asked questions
Is my shiny black rock a meteorite?
Almost never. Meteorites are rare, heavy, magnetic and usually have a dull dark fusion crust rather than a bright shine. Shiny black finds are far more likely to be Obsidian, Anthracite, and Augite.
How can I tell a metallic rock from a glassy one?
Metallic luster reflects light like polished metal and the stone is opaque even at thin edges; glassy (vitreous) luster looks like glass and thin edges often let light through. Metallic minerals also tend to leave a colored streak on unglazed porcelain.
Not sure what you found?
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