8 Types of Obsidian You Should Know

What is an Obsidian?

Obsidian is a kind of glass that forms when hot lava from volcanoes cools down quickly. Instead of having a regular pattern like most rocks, its particles freeze in a random way, creating a smooth and shiny surface. It's made in the intense heat inside the Earth and gets its unique look from the rapid cooling process during a volcanic eruption.

Where Obsidian Can Find?

Obsidian can be found in various locations around the world, and its presence is often associated with past or present volcanic activity. Here are some regions where obsidian is commonly found

Western United States

The western part of the United States, particularly in states like California, Oregon, and Nevada, is known for abundant deposits of obsidian. The volcanic history of the region has resulted in various types and colours of obsidian.

Iceland

Iceland is another location where obsidian is found due to its volcanic nature. The variety known as Hrafntinna is found in certain areas of Iceland.

Italy

Obsidian deposits can be found in Italy, especially in regions with a history of volcanic activity such as Lipari, a part of the Aeolian Islands.

Turkey

Turkey has several regions with obsidian deposits, and archaeological evidence suggests that ancient civilizations used Turkish obsidian for tools and weapons.

Mexico

Obsidian is also found in Mexico, and there are significant deposits in areas like Pachuca, Hidalgo, and the Michoacán region.

Peru

In South America, obsidian deposits are found in Peru, where it has been used historically by indigenous cultures for various purposes.

Armenia

The region around Mount Aragats in Armenia is known for obsidian deposits, and archaeological sites in the area have revealed ancient tools made from Armenian obsidian.

Structure of Obsidian

Obsidian is mostly made up of silicon dioxide, similar to quartz, but its distinctive feature lies in its structure, lacking the regular pattern seen in crystals. This unique composition, along with impurities like iron from hematite and trace elements such as magnesium and copper, contributes to the various colours observed in different types of obsidian, like the red and brown hues or the distinct colours found in varieties such as blue obsidian.

8 Obsidian Types You Should Know

Black Obsidian

Black obsidian is a shiny, dark volcanic glass formed when lava cools quickly. It was used in the past for tools and weapons. People believe it has protective and grounding powers in spiritual practices. It's often used in jewellery, but be careful because it can have sharp edges. Some also use it for scrying. While many find it spiritually meaningful, there's no scientific proof of its metaphysical properties.

Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake obsidian is a special type of dark volcanic glass with white snowflake-like patterns. People think it brings balance and helps with self-reflection. It's often used in jewelry, but it can have sharp edges, so be careful. The white patterns represent uniqueness. Some believe it has special properties, but that's not proven by science.

Rainbow Obsidian

Rainbow obsidian is a special kind of dark, glassy rock that shines like a rainbow. People believe it helps with emotional healing and balance. It's often used in jewellery because it looks pretty, but it can be sharp, so be careful. The rainbow colours are seen as a sign of positive change. Some think it has special powers, but that's not proven by science.

Mahogany Obsidian

Mahogany obsidian is a special kind of dark, glassy rock with a warm brown colour and dark streaks. People believe it makes them feel strong and grounded. It's often used in jewellery because it looks nice and reminds people of the Earth. Just be careful, it can have sharp edges. Some think it has special powers, but that's a personal belief, not proven by science.

Gold Sheen Obsidian

Gold Sheen Obsidian is a special kind of dark, shiny rock. It's black, but when light hits it, it sparkles with a golden or bronze glow. People think it makes them feel stronger and helps them focus. It's used in jewellery because it looks cool, but be careful it can be sharp. Some believe it has special powers, but that's just a personal belief, not proven by science.

Silver Sheen Obsidian

Silver Sheen Obsidian is a special shiny rock. It's mostly black, but when light hits it, it shines with a cool silver glow. People believe it helps them think clearly and feel balanced. It's used in jewellery because it looks nice, but it can be sharp, so be careful. Some think it has special powers, but that's just personal belief, not proven by science.

Blue Obsidian

Exhibits a captivating blue colour, often ranging from light sky blue to a deeper, almost navy shade. The colour is believed to result from the presence of trace elements like magnesium.

Apache Tears

Though technically a form of obsidian, Apache Tears are rounded nodules of black or brown obsidian. Legend has it that they represent the tears of Apache women mourning the loss of their loved ones.

Obsidian Colour Tones

Obsidian is mainly black, like the deep night sky. Yet, nature adds some interesting touches. Hematite brings in red and brown colours, and small gas bubbles, trapped during quick cooling, make it shine with a golden glow, turning it into a stunning natural creation.

Uses of Obsidians

Beyond Tools and Weapons

Obsidian's sharp edges have historical significance in tool and weapon crafting, owing to its ability to maintain a razor-sharp edge. Beyond utility, obsidian finds appreciation for its aesthetic qualities, gracing ornamental carvings, beads, and ceremonial objects throughout history.

Decorations

Shiny Jewellery : Create beautiful jewellery like necklaces and earrings using polished obsidian.

Fancy Sculptures: Craft small sculptures or carvings that show off the cool patterns in different kinds of obsidian.

Pretty Ornaments: Make small decorative items, like animal figures or symbols, out of shaped and polished obsidian.

Cool Home Stuff: Use obsidian to make things for your home, like bookends, coasters, or even a cool tabletop.

Candle Holders: Carve or shape obsidian to make unique holders for candles, letting the shiny glass enhance the glow of the candle.

Little Gem Trees: Build tiny trees with obsidian as the base and wire branches adorned with smaller, polished obsidian pieces.

Lamps and Sun Catchers: Create lamps or decorations that catch the sunlight, adding a touch of color and beauty to your space.

Custom Art Pieces: Make or get custom art that features obsidian, showing off its colors and patterns in a unique way.