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 black crystal. That is due to the high content of silica which gives the substance high viscosity. Its 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. 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. 

What color is Obsidian?

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.

 Naturally, some impurities may affect the color like iron that gives it a dark brown or red and black 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 or silver sheen, just to name a few.

There is a new 'blue obsidian' on the market that is in fact just glass.  It is a very clear coloring with a slight blue-green hue to it.  There is no naturally occurring blue obsidian.  All obsidian is glass, but all glass is not obsidian if that is helpful.

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 is a volcanic glass found in various locations worldwide, including Mexico, Guatemala, Greece, Italy, Hungary, Turkey, Kenya, Papua New Guinea, the United States, and Australia. Mexico boasts famous sources like the Obsidian Cliff in Jalisco, while Guatemala is known for deposits in El Chayal and San Martín Jilotepeque. Greece and Italy offer exquisite varieties, and Hungary and Turkey are notable contributors. Kenya, Papua New Guinea, the United States, and Australia also provide significant sources of this captivating stone.

Did you know that there is an expansive find of obsidian in Yellowstone?  There is actually a mountain there known as Obsidian Cliff.  It's history is quite unique!

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. Holding an Obsidian palm stone during meditation or having a piece on your altar can help bring extra stability to your practices.

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! 

Crystals That Work Well With Obsidian

Crystals that complement and work well with Obsidian offer a diverse range of supportive energies. Smoky Quartz, known for its grounding and protective properties, can be combined with Obsidian to amplify their combined abilities in shielding against negative energies and promoting emotional stability. Additionally, Black Tourmaline, a powerful stone for energetic protection, can enhance Obsidian's shielding properties and create a potent energetic barrier. Rose Quartz, with its gentle and soothing energy, can be paired with Obsidian to infuse self-love and emotional healing into the strong protective energy of Obsidian. Finally, Clear Quartz, a versatile crystal with amplifying properties, can be used alongside Obsidian to enhance its cleansing and purifying effects.

Together, these crystals create a harmonious synergy that supports grounding, protection, emotional healing, and amplification of intentions.

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 and a crystal for Scorpios.