Fulgurite, also known as “fossilized lightning”, are natural glass tubes or formations that are created by the heat of lightning strikes. When a lightning bolt hits the ground it generates temperatures of up to 30,000 Kelvin (over 53,000°F), hotter than the surface of the sun. This intense heat melts the silica rich sand and fuses it almost instantly, forming hollow branching structures that solidify as they cool. In the Sahara Desert where thunderstorms occasionally roll in across the desert, these cooled formations can be found beneath the sand.
The fulgurites from the Sahara Desert are special because of their environment. The desert’s quartz rich sand is the perfect material for these glassy formations. Over time the wind blown sand often buries and preserves these delicate formations protecting them from erosion. Fulgurites are scientifically important because they trap the energy of the lightning and often preserve the composition of the atmosphere at the time of their creation. They are valuable to researchers studying geophysical processes and past climate conditions. And with their irregular shapes and glassy texture they are a sought after collectible for mineral enthusiasts and natural history museums. Of note, since Fulgurite is created by an impact of lightning hitting the ground, it cannot be called impactite as it is not created by a meteoritic event.
Fulgurite is often considered a symbol of transformation, energy, and connection to the divine, primarily due to its association with lightning. Some believe fulgurite carries the power of lightning itself—acting as a conduit between the physical and spiritual realms. It's said to help with spiritual awakening or to encourage personal growth by clearing blockages, especially when it comes to energy flow or communication with higher states of consciousness. Because of its fiery origins, it can be seen as a tool to help ignite creativity or insight, as lightning strikes are associated with sudden inspiration or illumination.
This rare and fantastic Fulgurite piece displays extremely well and is a large, quality specimen. Included with the fulgurite is a glass vial of Sahara Desert sand, giving you a before and after of the lightening strike. This specimen is great as a teaching tool in the home or in the classroom, as a gift, or simply as a conversation piece. Comes with a Canagem Collection specimen card.
Name: Fulgurite
Specimen Size: Miniature-Sized
Dimensions: 54x27x19 mm / 2.1x1.1x0.7 inches
Weight: 11.98 Grams / 2.7 Ounces
Origin: Sahara Desert
