Libyan Desert glass/ Libyan gold tektite
Libyan Desert Glass, also known as Libyan Gold Tektite or Great Sand Sea Glass, is very rare and unique. It is a nearly pure silica tektite believed to have been created from a meteorite impact 26 million years ago (although this is highly debated due to no evidence of a physical impact). This occurred over the modern day Sahara Desert in what is now western Egypt and eastern Libya. Pieces are found scattered across many square miles and range in color from a transparent yellow to a full-bodied gold. It was officially discovered in 1932 by P. Clayton, but has a long history that traces all the way back to Ancient Egypt.
Relics and artifacts of this naturally made glass have been discovered amongst the ruins of Ancient Egypt and it’s robust civilization. Aside from the everyday tools and weapons which were crafted from this unique mineral, it was also revered by pharaohs and their gods. When King Tutenkhamen’s burial chamber was discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter, a very special pendant was located around the body of King Tut. Within the center of the charm was a near perfectly carved scarab (a powerful and divine manifestation amulet and symbol of Ancient Egypt.) This was a surprise discovery and for nearly a decade after, the stone’s origins and locality remained a mystery.
