Philippinite – Luzon, Philippines

Philippinite refers to a type of tektite originating from the Philippines, which is part of the largest known tektite strewn field in the world – the so-called Australasian strewn field. It is most commonly found in surface deposits or river sediments across various regions of the Philippines, particularly on Luzon Island, specifically in the Rizal Province. Its formation dates back approximately 700,000–800,000 years ago, when a massive meteoritic impact melted surrounding rocks and ejected them into the atmosphere. These molten fragments rapidly cooled upon re-entry to Earth, acquiring their typical glassy texture and shape.

Philippinites usually have a dark to black or brownish-black color and a glassy, shiny surface. Their surface often displays small pits, grooves, or flake-like patterns, formed due to rapid cooling and aerodynamic shaping during atmospheric re-entry. Chemically, they are similar to other tektites – consisting mainly of natural glass rich in silicon dioxide, along with smaller amounts of other elements.