Obsidian Definition

Obsidian

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1 Definition

1.1 Definition

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock. It is produced when felsic lava extruded from a volcano cools rapidly with minimum crystal growth

1.2 History

1.2.1 Origin

Ethiopia

1.2.2 Discoverer

Obsius

1.3 Etymology

From Latin obsidianus, misprint of Obsianus (lapis) (stone) of Obsius

1.4 Class

Igneous Rocks

1.4.1 Sub-Class

Durable Rock, Medium Hardness Rock

1.5 Family

1.5.1 Group

Volcanic

1.6 Other Categories

Opaque Rock

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Define Obsidian

Obsidian is one of the important type of rocks. If we have to define Obsidian in general, Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock. It is produced when felsic lava extruded from a volcano cools rapidly with minimum crystal growth. Obsidian comes under Igneous Rocks. All Igneous Rocks have similar properties and formation process. Along with Obsidian Definition, know more about the History of Obsidian, Etymology of Obsidian in next sections.