rockIgneous

Obsidian

Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly, resulting in a smooth, glassy rock often found in dark colors.

Hardness: 5–5.5 Mohs

Quick Facts

Key properties and characteristics

Category

rock

Family

Igneous

Colors

black, dark brown, mahogany, greenish-black, rainbow sheen

Hardness

5–5.5 Mohs

Luster

vitreous

Transparency

opaque

Found In

Mexico, USA, Turkey

Stone DNA

Property breakdown

Hardness
Mohs scale: 5.5
5.5/10
Durability
Resistance to wear
5.4/10
Luster
vitreous
8.0/10
Rarity
common
2.0/10
Density
2.6 g/cm³
5.2/10

Scores normalized to 10-point scale for comparison

Color Spectrum

Natural color variations

black
dark brown
mahogany
greenish-black
rainbow sheen
blackdark brownmahoganygreenish-blackrainbow sheen

Origin Highlights

Where this stone is found

common
🇲🇽
MexicoPrimary
🇺🇸
USA
🌍
Turkey
🌍
Armenia
🌍
Iceland

+1 more locations

Crystal Structure

Molecular arrangement

Interlocking Crystalline

Multiple crystals fused together in matrix

GraniteMarbleGneissQuartzite

Geology Deep Dive

Formation & composition

Formation

Obsidian forms when felsic lava cools extremely rapidly, preventing crystal growth and resulting in a glassy texture. It is typically found near volcanic flows and domes.

🌋

Volcanic / Plutonic

5-30 km below surface

Mineral Composition

Amorphous silica (SiO2) with trace elements
Formation Timeline: Thousands to millions of years

Rashi & Planetary Match

Vedic astrology compatibility

💎
Birth Month: Not a traditional birthstone

Uses by Industry

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5 industry applicationsClick any to see related stones

Commonly Confused With

How to tell them apart

🆚
Jetvs Obsidian

Similar appearance

🆚
Onyxvs Obsidian

Similar appearance

🆚
Black Tourmalinevs Obsidian

Similar appearance

🆚
Glass (man-made)vs Obsidian

Similar appearance

Always verify with hardness test or expert examination

Formation & Geology

Obsidian forms through geological processes over millions of years. The unique conditions of temperature and pressure create its distinctive characteristics and crystal structure.

Understanding the geological origins helps appreciate the rarity and natural beauty of this stone.

Uses & Applications

Spiritual & Healing

Obsidian has long been considered a powerful stone for protection and grounding. Its reflective surface is said to act as a spiritual mirror, helping users confront their inner shadows and release negative energies. Shamans and healers have used obsidian for centuries to shield against psychic attacks and to facilitate deep healing work. While not traditionally assigned to any specific Rashi or planet in Vedic astrology, obsidian is often recommended for those seeking clarity, emotional balance, and energetic cleansing. Its energy is thought to cut through illusions and bring truth to light, making it a valuable companion for meditation and introspection.

Affirmations

"I am protected from negativity."

"I embrace truth and clarity."

"I am grounded and secure."

Rituals & Practices

  • Carry a piece for energetic shielding.
  • Use in meditation to reveal hidden truths.
  • Place near entryways for home protection.

The information provided is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for health-related questions.

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Data
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1 months ago

Stone data enriched using AI with gemology and Vedic astrology sources. Always verify with certified experts for important decisions.