Fulgurite

A variety of Metamorphic

Rare
Fulgurite specimen

What is Fulgurite?

Commonly known as "fossilized lightning," fulgurite is a natural tube or crust made of sand, fused in the heat from a lightning strike. These irregular, glassy structures are found in many localities around the world, including the Sahara desert. Fulgurite is often used in the jewelry industry, particularly for pendants.

Uses & Applications

Fulgurite is a rare glassy material produced when lightning strikes sandy materials. Its scarcity and exotic provenance make examples of this material highly collectible for mineral enthusiasts, and good examples change hands for substantial sums.

Healing Properties

Fulgurite is supposedly highly shamanic, allowing interaction between the possessor and the spiritual world. The stone's vibrational energy may result in a Kundalini awakening, potentially generating a higher internal awareness and feelings of inner strength. The belief is that fulgurite connects particularly with the third eye and throat chakras, inciting enlightenment, aiding communication, and healing physical discomforts of the throat area.

Discover Values

Rarity
4.3out of 5.0
86%
Popularity
4.1out of 5.0
82%
Beauty
4.0out of 5.0
80%
Cultural Value
4.3out of 5.0
86%
Collection Value
4.3out of 5.0
86%

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Fulgurite before comparing listings or appraisals.

Size & Weight

Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.

Rarity & Demand

Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.

Condition & Finish

Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.

Treatment & Provenance

Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Fulgurite Localities Map

See where Fulgurite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Associated Chakras

Root
Root
Sacral
Sacral
Solar Plexus
Solar Plexus
Heart
Heart
Throat
Throat
Third Eye
Third Eye
Crown
Crown

More Images

Fulgurite specimen
John Alan Elson

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Various colors, often gray, yellow-brown, brown
Hardness (Mohs)
6.5
Density
1.9 - 2.3 g/cm³
Streak
White

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
SiO2
Elements
Si, O

Also Known As

FulguritePetrified LightningAstrapialith
FREE APPTrusted by rockhounds
Ruby Glint rock identifier app

Identify Fulgurite Instantly

  • Snap a photo, get instant results
  • 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
  • Discover collecting spots near you

Fulgurite FAQs

How do I identify Fulgurite?

Fulgurite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Various colors color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Fulgurite?

Fulgurite typically appears in Various colors, often gray, yellow-brown, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Fulgurite?

Fulgurite has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Related Metamorphic

Explore More Rocks & Minerals