Linked from

The 20 pages that link to Obsidian, each with the reason it gives.

• MesoamericaRelated: Its sources and distribution reveal far-reaching exchange networks.

• Igneous rockBroader topic: Obsidian is an extreme case of rapid cooling and minimal crystal growth.

• GlassRelated: It demonstrates that glass can form naturally without human manufacture.

• ÇatalhöyükRelated: Obsidian tools connect daily work at the site with regional sources and exchange.

• LavaBroader topic: It records rapid cooling in certain lava deposits.

• RhyoliteBroader topic: Rapidly cooled rhyolitic lava can form glass rather than a crystalline rock.

• Lithic technologyBroader topic: Its glassy fracture supports precise flake production and sourcing studies.

• Volcanic rockBroader topic: It is a familiar example of volcanic material solidifying without crystals.

• Volcanic glassBroader topic: It is the best-known example of volcanic glass and shows how silica-rich lava can vitrify.

• ChertCompared with: Both can fracture sharply, but obsidian is glassy igneous rock rather than sedimentary quartz.

• Intrusive rockCompared with: Its glassy texture contrasts with the crystals typical of slowly cooled intrusions.

• ScoriaCompared with: Obsidian is dense and glassy, unlike scoria’s porous, bubble-rich texture.

• Mesoamerican civilizationsRelated: Its sources and distribution reveal trade connections and political reach.

• Extrusive rockBroader topic: Obsidian is an extrusive rock whose glassy texture records rapid cooling.

• KnappingRelated: Its glassy structure permits exceptionally sharp edges and controlled flake removal.

• Halaf cultureRelated: Obsidian artifacts trace contacts and resource movement across Halaf regions.

• Japanese PaleolithicRelated: Its distinctive sources help trace the movement and exchange of stone across the archipelago.

• History of glassRelated: Its ancient use preceded manufactured glass and supplied a familiar model for glassy materials.

• MacuahuitlRelated: Its sharpness made it the macuahuitl’s cutting material.

• Prismatic bladeRelated: Obsidian’s predictable fracture makes it a common material for prismatic blade production.