Geology / History
Obsidian is an igneous rock that forms when molten rock material cools so rapidly that atoms are unable to arrange themselves into a crystalline structure. The result is a volcanic glass with a smooth uniform texture that breaks with a conchoidal fracture.
As a glass Obsidian is chemically unstable. With the passage of time, some Obsidian begins to crystallize. This process does not happen at a uniform rate throughout the rock. Instead it begins at various locations within the rock. At these locations the crystallization process forms radial clusters of white to white/grey Cristobalite crystal Spherulites within the Obsidian. When cut & polished these specimens show a distinct snowflake like pattern caused by the Spherulites.
Metaphysical Properties
Brings purity, balance, calms & soothes. Sharpens both external & internal vision. Teaches the value of mistakes as well as successes. Helps you to recognise & release stressful mental patterns. Allows you to stay grounded while working with your higher self, by connecting both energies.
Shields from negativity, absorbs anger, fear & stress. Gently brings repressed thoughts & emotions out whether positive or negative. Obsidian is a warrior of truth which reveals the ego.
Snowflake Obsidian was referred to as the “Book of Laws” stone by Native Americans who believed the mineral was a guardian to the Great Spirit. Shamans often carried this stone as a powerful talisman to avert evil & bring good fortune.
Crystal Healing
Treats veins and the skeleton, improves circulation.
Mineralogy
Group: Volcanic glass
Crystal System: Amorphous
Composition: 70–75% SiO2 plus MgO, Fe3O4
Form/Habit: Massive
Hardness: 5-6
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Conchoidal
Lustre: Vitreous
Specific Gravity: 2.4
Transparency: Translucent
R.I: 1.450 – 1.550
Obsidian is an igneous rock that forms when molten rock material cools so rapidly that atoms are unable to arrange themselves into a crystalline structure. The result is a volcanic glass with a smooth uniform texture that breaks with a conchoidal fracture.
As a glass Obsidian is chemically unstable. With the passage of time, some Obsidian begins to crystallize. This process does not happen at a uniform rate throughout the rock. Instead it begins at various locations within the rock. At these locations the crystallization process forms radial clusters of white to white/grey Cristobalite crystal Spherulites within the Obsidian. When cut & polished these specimens show a distinct snowflake like pattern caused by the Spherulites.
Metaphysical Properties
Brings purity, balance, calms & soothes. Sharpens both external & internal vision. Teaches the value of mistakes as well as successes. Helps you to recognise & release stressful mental patterns. Allows you to stay grounded while working with your higher self, by connecting both energies.
Shields from negativity, absorbs anger, fear & stress. Gently brings repressed thoughts & emotions out whether positive or negative. Obsidian is a warrior of truth which reveals the ego.
Snowflake Obsidian was referred to as the “Book of Laws” stone by Native Americans who believed the mineral was a guardian to the Great Spirit. Shamans often carried this stone as a powerful talisman to avert evil & bring good fortune.
Crystal Healing
Treats veins and the skeleton, improves circulation.
Mineralogy
Group: Volcanic glass
Crystal System: Amorphous
Composition: 70–75% SiO2 plus MgO, Fe3O4
Form/Habit: Massive
Hardness: 5-6
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Conchoidal
Lustre: Vitreous
Specific Gravity: 2.4
Transparency: Translucent
R.I: 1.450 – 1.550