What is Black Obsidian?

Obsidian is a member of the Mineraloid family. This material is actually volcanic glass formed when erupted lava cools rapidly which means it’s not technically a crystal. That is due to the high content of silica which gives the substance high viscosity. It’s formed in multiple areas like along the edges of lava flows and volcanic domes and places where the lava directly contacts water or air. For this process to occur there also needs to be some lighter elements like aluminum, sodium and potassium. Naturally, some impurities may affect the color like iron that gives it a dark brown color (Mahogany Obsidian) or minerals like Cristobalite that give it a snowflake pattern (Snowflake Obsidian). Some Obsidian crystals may even have gas bubbles from the lava flow which produces a golden sheen, just to name a few.

Obsidian is a silicon dioxide material. It has a 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness which making it a hard, but susceptible to scratches. Because of its brittle structure, it has a conchoidal fracture point with sharp edges when the mineral cracks.

Obsidian’s name comes from the Latin word “obsidianus” which is translated to “of Obsidius”. This name was given because Obsidius was supposedly the first to discover this material.

What does Obsidian look like?

Black Obsidian is an igneous rock/glass that forms when felsic lava (lower temp lava) cools rapidly, hardening without an internal crystalline structure. Obsidian is a 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. The most commonly found obsidian will be opaque (brown/gray  on its thin edges), jet black, brittle with a smooth surface area, sharp edges, and a glossy mirror-like surface. Obsidian can often be identified by its round fractures that resemble a ripple in the water. 

Depending on locality, obsidian can also be found in different transparencies, sheens, patterns, and hues of gray, green, tan, brown, and can rarely be found in blue, red, orange, and yellow. There is even a ‘rainbow obsidian’ that when polished correctly will show off an array of different color sheens. Iridescent or sheen obsidian occurs when gas bubbles are trapped between the lava’s layers during formation.

Obsidian that is more transparent has less silica, while opaque obsidian has more silica. Different colored obsidian is caused mainly by inclusions or trace elements.

Although specific geographical locations are known to have more of a particular obsidian type, all types of obsidian have been found worldwide.

Where does Obsidian come from?

Obsidian can be found all over the world in locations like the Mexico, Guatemala, Greece, Italy, Hungary, Turkey, Kenya, Papua New Guinea, United States, Australia and many others.

Obsidian Properties

Obsidian is a stone that works closely with the Root Chakra. By balancing this chakra, you will get achieve a deeper grounding. Additionally, it protects and cleanses bad energies which will increase your feeling of safety. It’s also connected to the Third Eye Chakra and Solar Plexus Chakra. That’s why this is the perfect stone for you if you’re seeking some help with facing your issues. It will provide you with the much- needed courage and confidence to explore yourself and your deeper truth.

Black obsidian is most well known for its ability to remove the negative energy that may be within your aura (your energy/vibe/mood). Therefore, this gem can be used for root chakra grounding and healing. Obsidian is great at absorbing all things negative…energies, environmental, and technological garbage. It also said to help you unearth lies, and therefore helps you find the truth. It definitely is a protective crystal!

What is Obsidian used for?

Obsidian can be worn as magnificent bracelets and necklaces that will bring about more grounding. It’s also a perfect piece for spicing up and balancing your home. In terms of Feng Shui, you can get protective benefits if you place it near your doorway or in the space where you do shadow work. Obsidian crystals can be a great tool for balancing the chakras mentioned above. This crystal is also the birthstone and perfect amulet for Sagittarians and Scorpios!

To use black obsidian in feng shui, place the stones in the place of your home that corresponds with the area in your life that needs protection. For example, your home’s entryway represents the people and energy you let in, while your kitchen represents nourishment.

Obsidian 'Apache Tears' are also a tumbled crystal that is specifically known to aid in grief and healing after a loss.

More About Obsidian

Chakras: Root Chakra

Obsidian Localities: Anywhere that volcanic activity occurs. Argentina, the US, Chile, Guatemala,  India, Iceland, Kenya, Italy, Australia,  New Zealand, Peru, Mexico, Afghanistan, and Switzerland

Birthstone: Black obsidian is an alternative birthstone for December.