Obsidian
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Obsidian
This is an obsidian-flow outcrop in Oira Bay, Mayor Island. Obsidian is a natural glass, formed by the rapid cooling of silica-rich volcanic lava. It was prized for its use in cutting and scraping. The Māori name was matā, and obsidian from Mayor Island (Tūhua) was known as matā tūhua.
About this item
Private collection
Photograph by Richard Smith
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