- What: Ornamental;
- Deposits: Mexico, Ecuador, Iceland, Japan, Ethiopia, Armenia, Turkey, Russia (Kamchatka, Caucasus, Kuril Islands, Siberia);
- Colors: Light grey, grey, reddish-brown, brown, yellow, black;
- Mohs hardness: 5-6;
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent;
- Density: 2.6 g/cm³;
- Formula: SiO2;
- Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign: Everyone except Cancers and Virgos;
- How much does it cost: from 50 rubles.
Obsidian stone attracts the eye with its extraordinary beauty. Mother Nature herself endowed volcanic glass with unique properties, and the universe gave it enormous power.
Even in the ancient world, it enjoyed great popularity, which has remained to this day.
There are legends about him. Its magical properties are valued by people with superpowers, and jewelry made from this unusual stone is in demand even among the most exalted and stylish beauties.
Where did this beautiful creation of nature come from? What is its origin?
Origin story
A merciless volcano has awakened! Streams of lava rushed towards a small Armenian village, sweeping away everything in its path.
People ran to a small rural chapel to hide from the fury of the elements and pray to God for salvation from the devil, who hated Armenia because the country was one of the first to heed the Christian religion.
A beautiful Angel, the messenger of the Lord, came to save the inhabitants of the village from the wrath of dark forces, but splashes of merciless lava fell on the wings of Seraphim, scorching them. The feathers scattered into small pieces, turning into black stones sparkling with the bright colors of the rainbow.
Good and evil, ice and fire, love and death - all this contains the unique mineral Obsidian, which by origin is frozen volcanic glass.
The name of the gem comes from the Roman warrior Obsidia, who, according to legend, brought it to Europe from Ethiopia.
Obsidian is a semi-precious stone that has all the power of the cosmos.
Meaning of the stone
In the Caucasus, obsidian was considered the creation of the devil and was called “fragments of the bones of Satan,” and the American Indians called it “tears of the Apaches.”
According to an ancient legend, when Indian women mourned their men who died during battles and battles, the tears froze, forming amazingly beautiful stones.
In Ancient Egypt it was read that black obsidian is the stone of the dead. It was customary to place it in burials so that the deceased could rest peacefully in the other world.
Obsidian has the powers of three planets: Saturn, Pluto and the Sun. Its element is Earth.
The gem is also called the savior. It protects its owners from dark magical influences, bad love, as well as from sinful thoughts and deeds. Talismans and amulets with obsidian are very popular.
Zodiac signs
Astrologers have concluded that this type of stone is under the protection of Pluto. Capricorns, Aries, Sagittarius and Leo have an astrological affinity for this mineral. Jewelry, talismans and amulets that were made from snow obsidian have a very strong effect on people born under the zodiac sign Pisces, Gemini, Aquarius. For Scorpios, the gem is a real amulet. Astrologers do not recommend wearing this stone to all Cancers and Virgos. It would be advisable to make a silver frame for this mineral.
Video on the topic: Snow obsidian
Physical properties
Obsidian contains 75% silicon oxide SiO2, 25% magnesium oxide MgO and iron oxide Fe3O4.
The gem has the following physical properties:
- hardness on the Mohs scale – 5-6;
- density – 2.6 g/cm³;
- glassy sheen with iridescence;
- high fragility;
- dense non-crystalline structure;
- translucency.
Description
Snow obsidian is a mineral of volcanic origin. Essentially, it is igneous glass that was formed as a result of the rapid cooling of lava that spilled onto the surface of the earth.
The presence of peculiar snowflakes on the surface of the stone is due to the presence of special inclusions - cristobalite crystals. It is they that form the pattern characteristic of snow obsidian. It seems that the mineral is finely covered with light snow.
The shade of snow obsidian can vary: from rich black to brown. “Snowflakes”, as a rule, are painted white or gray, but their location on the surface of the stone is always uneven. They can be small, or they can be large.
The structure of the stone is glassy (amorphous), dense. Texture - massive or foamy. The hardness of the mineral is high - 6 on the Mohs scale. But at the same time, it is considered fragile and has low wear resistance to abrasion. Jewelry with snow obsidian requires special care and vigilance.
Varieties and colors
Black
Peanut
Rainbow
Snow
The color of the mineral is mostly black, with streaks. There is brown obsidian, as well as grayish or greenish. The color of the stone depends on the content of magnesium oxide and iron oxide in it.
Depending on the color and pattern, the stone has several varieties:
- black obsidian;
- peanut mineral;
- rainbow gem with green, red, blue and other tints;
- snowy, the most beautiful, with the effect of scattered snowflakes, due to the white-gray inclusions of cristobalite.
Colors and varieties
The main color options for the stone are black, gray or reddish-brown. At the same time, minerals with mixed colors are found:
- Snow obsidian has a predominantly black color, diluted with small white spots, very similar to snowflakes.
- Rainbow stone shimmers with numerous colors, making it look like a rainbow. When cut, this color resembles spilled oil.
- Peanut obsidian contains inclusions similar in appearance to nuts.
Magic properties
Obsidian has powerful magical and energetic properties. He is able to reveal the true essence of all things, help find the right solution to any, even the most confusing situation, and bring to light all the deep and suppressed feelings and emotions.
The gem is a great healer of both the mind and soul, causing people to remember their past incarnations.
The power of the universe itself allows the owner of the stone to reveal all the secrets of the universe.
Obsidian talismans promote spiritual development, clarify the mind, help its owner see the true reality of the world around him, and develop love and compassion for his own kind.
With its help, people can realize everything negative that is in them, harmonize their state of mind, overcome all their fears and worries, and become more self-confident.
Magicians and mediums have long used a mysterious stone that helps them communicate with the spirits of the elements. The mineral helps to reveal clairvoyance and superpowers.
Medicinal properties
Obsidian is widely used by lithotherapists. The healing properties of the mineral are no less unique than the magical ones.
It is capable of healing many ailments such as:
- rheumatism;
- nervous and mental illnesses;
- kidney and gastrointestinal diseases;
- sexual disorders in women and men;
- gynecological problems.
The stone perfectly fights colds, improves immunity, and also stabilizes blood pressure.
Magical and healing properties of the stone
If you constantly wear obsidian, the magical properties of the gem will be fully manifested. They have been known since ancient times. From time immemorial, people have believed in the magical power of the mineral. Historical descriptions say that it was used for various religious rituals in many cultures around the world.
The Sumerians were sure that the energy of three planets at once was concentrated in the stone - Saturn, Uranus, and the Sun. That is why he had such powerful strength.
In ancient times, mirrors and balls were made from obsidian, which made it possible to look into the future and make predictions.
Other magical properties of obsidian include the following:
- The powerful energy of the stone allows you to make all your dreams come true. If a person wants to achieve something, he needs to start wearing obsidian. With the help of the stone he can get what he wants.
- If there is stability in life that completely suits a person, he should stop using obsidian. Also, the stone is not suitable for people who are not ready for important changes.
- The gem helps to cope with obstacles and promotes concentration. Therefore, volcanic glass is suitable for people who are engaged in research. The gem patronizes active and energetic people.
- A gemstone amulet helps protect against negative energy. It protects against evil eyes and failures. People who have enemies or envious people should definitely keep this stone with them at all times. It will reflect the negative intentions of other people. The protective amulet is also suitable for children. This will help protect them from negativity.
- The stone is perfect for people who meditate. It helps clear your mind of unnecessary thoughts.
- Obsidian allows you to establish a connection with the other world. With its help you can predict the future. With constant contact with the stone, you can become more attentive and focused. Thanks to this, a person will learn to notice various little things, predict the actions of other people and draw their own conclusions.
The best compatibility is observed with the stone and silver. This metal allows you to fully reveal the magical potential of the mineral.
At the same time, it is quite acceptable to wear products that are entirely made of gemstones. Various jewelry is made from the mineral - beads, earrings, bracelets. They can be used as a talisman.
For people who do not want to show off their amulet to others, drop-shaped pendants that hang on laces are suitable. They can easily be hidden under clothes.
Beads are suitable as a talisman.
The power of a gem does not depend on its size. Even a small suspension will help achieve the desired results.
In addition to its magical qualities, obsidian is also characterized by pronounced healing properties. With its help it is possible to achieve the following results:
- Cope with colds that are associated with sudden hypothermia. Obsidian also helps eliminate other pathologies caused by prolonged exposure to cold. Probably, such properties are associated with the fiery volcanic origin of the stone.
- Improve the condition of the digestive organs. Obsidian is especially useful for heartburn.
- Coping with pressure fluctuations. At the same time, the gem is beneficial at both high and low values.
- Improve the condition of spinal diseases. The gem is also beneficial for rheumatism.
- Eliminate diseases of the genitourinary system. Moreover, the stone is suitable for both men and women.
During neurotic attacks, it is recommended to look more often at a rainbow or black stone, and also to pick it up. Under the influence of the powerful and calm energy of the stone, you will be able to restore your balance.
Rainbow stone helps cope with neuroses.
The stone should be worn with great caution if you have kidney disease. The gem can negatively affect them, disrupting the energy balance.
Obsidian is also used in traditional medicine. It is used to make surgical instruments. Moreover, experts note that after their use the patient recovers much faster.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
Obsidian is most suitable for Capricorn. This zodiac sign, under the influence of the mineral, can change their life for the better, getting rid of the negative traits of their character.
Aries to curb their difficult temperament, making them calmer and more insightful.
Bracelets with snow obsidian
Leo and Sagittarius under its wing. It is also good for Aquarius, Gemini and Scorpio, but for Cancers and Virgos this stone is absolutely contraindicated, as it causes them aggression and irritability.
Magical properties of obsidian stone according to zodiac sign
Obsidian is a stone with magical properties for zodiac signs. But although it suits almost everyone, there are people who are its favorites, and there are those who should be careful about it.
- For Aries, wearing the mineral should be short-term. Its magical properties increase the nervousness and stubbornness of its owner. Obsidian will best help when solving complex financial issues and in career growth. It will protect representatives of this sign from rash actions and material losses.
- Taurus , like Aries, can wear this stone only periodically. The strong energy of obsidian helps to strengthen the negative character traits of this sign.
- For Gemini, the mineral will help overcome indecision and change their lives for the better, and will also help strengthen financial well-being. Obsidian is recommended for this zodiac sign as a talisman for constant wear.
- Cancers in terms of energy, so it is not advisable for them to use it. Very cautious and logical Cancers, under the influence of obsidian, will become cautious to the point of absurdity.
- For Leos, the stone will help pacify their “fiery” character. Under its influence, representatives of this sign will become more focused, prudent, self-possessed, calm and purposeful. It is suitable for them to wear constantly.
- Virgos suspicious and uncollected. Under its influence, representatives of this sign plunge into dreams and forget about everyday affairs. However, he can help them arrange their personal lives. The magical properties of obsidian stone for women are that ladies become more confident and seductive.
- For Libra, the mineral is neutral. It will not have a negative impact, but it will not protect against witchcraft and damage. Although it can contribute to the development of concentration and determination in Libra, who is always weighing and hesitating in matters of personal relationships and creating a family.
- For Scorpio, obsidian is an ideal talisman that helps control emotions, clarify the mind, and protect against stressful conditions. This is an excellent assistant in matters related to your personal life. However, it is worth remembering that you need to interrupt work with the mineral, as it can make Scorpio overly narcissistic and selfish.
- Obsidian is a good helper for Sagittarius who are engaged in intellectual activities. It stimulates mental activity in representatives of this sign. In creative people, it will awaken new abilities and help them to reveal themselves.
- for Capricorns from all the zodiac circles. It will not only give the representatives of this sign determination and strength, but will also change their lives for the better.
- For Aquarius, the stone will help organize thoughts and smooth out negative character traits. It allows some representatives of this sign to reveal magical abilities and talents. It also helps sharpen intuition.
- Indecisive Pisces can sometimes use obsidian to get rid of the fear of change. The stone will help them achieve their goals and overcome difficulties that arise in the process. However, it is not recommended to wear it constantly.
Talismans and amulets
The mineral is popular among bankers because it allows them to avoid unnecessary attention from others.
Obsidian is a talisman for creative people, writers, artists, inventors, to whom it gives inspiration and many creative ideas.
It protects military personnel and travelers from danger.
Also, obsidian helps flight attendants, pilots and captains, making them fearless and resilient. Obsidian amulets have a beneficial effect on people suffering from mental disorders.
Charms with stones will protect against fires and lightning, and will also bring good luck in money and love affairs.
Obsidian is an excellent protector against damage, the evil eye, curses and the influence of dark forces. It will cleanse its owner from “dirty” energies and the negative influence of others, and will also return joy to life to those who have lost hope for a bright future.
The magical properties of snow obsidian
Obsidian embodies the energy of a volcano. It is used by all religions for various religious attributes. This mineral develops intuition, insight and helps to foresee future events. Obsidian protects against the “evil eye,” witchcraft and curses, protects its owner on long trips, restores peace of mind after unhappy love, and protects against infidelity. In everyday life, obsidian protects against any harm, suppressing aggressive energy, relieving stress. Obsidian is a stone of prudence. This is a magic stone. Any magician has obsidian in his arsenal, because it helps to accumulate astral power and protects against evil spirits.
Decorations
The gem is in demand in jewelry. The stone is considered an ornamental stone and is used to make various jewelry, especially bracelets and necklaces.
Obsidian looks best in silver. It is rarely framed in gold. This metal unfavorably sets off the natural beauty of volcanic glass, and also causes cracks and chips on it.
The mineral is often found in men's rings and rings. Such a product will add courage and nobility to the representatives of the stronger sex.
Jewelers often debate whether obsidian should be considered a precious gem or a semi-precious one. Jewelry made from it, although inexpensive, looks quite elegant.
No fashionista will refuse a ring or pendant made of obsidian.
Properties of the snow obsidian stone for zodiac signs
Astrologers have come to the conclusion that this mineral is protected by Pluto. The beneficial qualities of snow obsidian apply to all zodiac signs. It is best suited for Aries, Leo, Sagittarius and Capricorn.
Talismans, amulets, amulets and jewelry made from snow obsidian have a beneficial effect on Gemini, Aquarius, Scorpio and Pisces. For Scorpios, this is the most powerful and important talisman.
Experts involved in astrology note that the properties of the snow obsidian stone do not appear for such zodiac signs as Virgo and Cancer. They should refuse to purchase it.
The most advantageous setting for this mineral is silver, which enhances its properties and effects.
Residents of Transcaucasia have been presenting snow obsidian as a gift to children for a long time. It is believed that the stone is very useful for a child. There are many legends and myths around it. They say that the mineral predicts negative events and wrong actions. Among other things, it becomes a reliable protection and amulet for its owner from the evil eye and damage.
Other uses of stone
- Obsidian is widely used industrially to make dark glass. Surgical instruments are made from it.
- In construction, volcanic glass is used to produce thermal insulation materials.
- The gem is valued as an ornamental stone, from which various souvenirs and other decorative products are made.
Despite the fact that obsidian is considered a “devilish” stone, Orthodox icons are produced from it, due to the fact that it can be easily processed (polished, ground).
These products look simply great! It doesn’t matter what a beautiful creation is made of, but what matters is its meaning.
Obsidian products
Jewelers love to process the mineral. This stone is classified as an ornamental stone, so all kinds of jewelry are made from it. The most common products are necklaces and bracelets. Because the crystal looks best when framed in silver, it is rarely placed in gold jewelry.
Gold unfavorably sets off the natural beauty of glass made from volcanic lava; it provokes the appearance of chips or cracks in it. The nugget is often found in rings or rings made for men. Such products add sophistication, nobility and the charm of courage. There is no consensus among jewelers on the question of whether it is worth combining obsidian with other precious or semi-precious stones. Although jewelry made from such a crystal is not an expensive item, it looks quite attractive and elegant. There are few fashionistas who can refuse a ring or a magnificent pendant containing obsidian.
Price
It is recommended to purchase jewelry containing obsidian only from well-tested, reputable specialized establishments, which will certainly provide the buyer with a quality certificate that guarantees the authenticity of the stone. A pendant set with obsidian, which is cut like a cabochon with a silver setting and has a diameter of about 3 cm, will cost the consumer about $30, smaller gems cost less - about $5.
Rainbow obsidian is much more expensive. Nuggets with a pattern resembling a heart on a cut are of particular value. Then the cost of jewelry varies from 200 to 500 dollars. Snow obsidian in a similar form costs $15–20.
Price
Since the gem is an ornamental one, its cost is low - from 50 rubles per kilogram.
The rarest and most valuable type of obsidian is rainbow obsidian, which is more valuable. Its price for one gram of obsidian ranges from 500 to 700 rubles, depending on the deposit and processing.
They say that there is the rarest type of stone - Chilean green obsidian, which is valued more than diamond.
Price
The price of obsidian depends on many factors: complexity of finishing, size, shape, type, cut. For a miniature stone, cabochon or pendant of 2–3 cm, you can pay from 100 to 700 rubles. The peanut or snow varieties are more commonly used here.
The price of one bracelet reaches 2,000 rubles, provided that it is made only from obsidian stone without metal.
Small-diameter mineral beads cost about 1,500 rubles; the larger the size of the bead, the more expensive the product. The price of a small sphere is 800 rubles or more.
Rings and earrings are usually made with a frame made of precious or base metal, so the price of the product here starts from 2,000 rubles.
Regular obsidian can be purchased at an affordable price. Iridescent and rare valuable samples are valued much more expensive.
Care
Pebble loves to be treated properly. It must be handled as carefully as possible, since the gem does not like sudden changes in temperature and is afraid of shocks.
Obsidian jewelry should be cleaned from time to time with special soft cloths without the use of chemicals.
You can use a solution of soap in cool water. After washing, the product must be wiped dry.
If obsidian is worn as a talisman, then once a week it should be placed under running water for several hours in order to cleanse it of the negative energy accumulated in it.
Who is it suitable for?
Obsidian, although a semi-precious stone, is one of the strongest natural talismans. The mineral affects representatives of different zodiac signs differently.
Compatibility with different zodiac signs
Astrologers believe that the gem is not suitable for all signs, and for some of them it is even contraindicated.
Don't neglect these tips:
- Aries should wear the mineral with caution and limit their contact with it. You can use it as a temporary assistant. Under its influence, Aries can become hot-tempered and irritated; volcanic rock will only aggravate his stubbornness and pride. He best helps Aries in matters of building a career and making money.
- Taurus will find it difficult to wear this stone all the time; they usually find it difficult to get along with it. Taurus does not like change and prefers stability and constancy, which is the opposite of the essence of obsidian. Still, he will become a worthy partner if you do not use him too often.
- Gemini a sense of confidence, eliminating hesitation and doubt, and help change their life for the better. The mineral is suitable for this sign as an amulet for daily wear.
- Cancer is not recommended to use the gem. Representatives of this sign are already dominated by caution and logic; they always analyze and weigh their steps. He will strengthen these qualities, making Cancers cautious to the point of absurdity and unable to make a choice.
- Leo will get rid of excessive imbalance, making them more reasonable, and will give them peace of mind. Representatives of this sign can wear obsidian constantly.
- For Virgos, the stone can help them become more confident and arrange their personal life. But it is not recommended to use it often, since the mineral increases the suspiciousness of Virgos and plunges them too deeply into dreams.
- Libra a neutral relationship with obsidian. The stone does not work at full strength, but does not have a negative effect. Representatives of this sign usually cannot establish full contact with him.
- Scorpio to find peace of mind psychologically and gives strength to cope with difficult life circumstances. He can also become an assistant in matters related to his personal life. However, you should not get too carried away with the mineral, as it can increase Scorpio’s selfishness and narcissism.
- Sagittarius very well, stimulating mental activity in representatives of this sign. Obsidian does not have a negative effect on them.
- for Capricorns ; it enhances their positive qualities and helps get rid of negative ones, and also predisposes them to improve their lives. Representatives of this sign have good compatibility with the stone.
- Aquarians will quickly make friends with obsidian. He will become an assistant to them in business, helping to develop mystical talents and strengthening intuition.
- Pisces can use the stone on rare occasions. They are not too decisive, so it will increase their confidence, but if worn for a long time, the mineral will begin to put pressure and cause anxiety.
How to distinguish a fake?
Natural stones are counterfeited quite rarely, since obsidian is an inexpensive mineral, however, there are cases when black-painted glass is passed off as a gem.
It is quite easy to distinguish a fake; you just have to hold the pebble in your hand - the natural stone will remain cold for a long time.
The natural mineral has a clear shine and a rich matte color. When placed in water, a fake gem will lose its purity of color and shine.
If the pebble you purchased is too transparent, then most likely it is a fake.
Real obsidians are rarely homogeneous - they always contain some inclusions.
How to distinguish a real stone from a fake
When purchasing a mineral, many are interested in how to distinguish obsidian from a fake. This is a truly relevant question. Often they try to pass off colored glass as a gem, which costs much less and has no magical or healing characteristics.
To purchase natural stone, it is recommended to pay attention to the following features:
- A real gem is characterized by a shiny surface. In addition, it has a rich color.
- The natural mineral is cold to the touch. To heat it up, you need to hold it in your hands for quite a long time.
- Single-colored gems are extremely rare. Generally, obsidian has many elements. They differ in shapes and colors.
The easiest way to identify a fake is to use water. If the stone becomes pale and dull after immersion in liquid, then it is ordinary glass.
Artificial obsidian
In addition to stone counterfeits, which were mentioned in ancient times by the ancient encyclopedist Pliny, there is now an artificial gem, which is obtained by mixing various volcanic rocks - glass, ash, etc.
These stones are sold under the name “helenite” or Helen’s stone.
Also, artificial obsidian is produced on an industrial scale by melting sand, simple glass and other materials. Jewelry, jewelry and crafts are made from it, passing them off as products made from natural obsidian.
Sometimes frosted or speckled glass slag is passed off as volcanic glass.
Use and care of stone
Of course, obsidian weapons are a thing of the past. It was used for one single reason - they did not know how to process metals. By itself, as a material for arrows or spears, stone is inferior to steel and even bronze. Yes, it is very sharp, but fragile. A broken or dull weapon can only be thrown out of it.
Obsidian is an ornamental material from which decorative elements, jewelry and weapons are made.
However, now obsidian blades and knives continue to be used, but not in war, but in microsurgery. Where it is important to make a thin, precise, neat cut (surgeries on the eyes, brain, heart), the stone becomes indispensable. Not all doctors, even in developed countries, can afford diamond instruments, but obsidian ones can easily be afforded.
Products made from obsidian are not only knives. This is an excellent craft material. Figurines are cut from gemstones, and luxurious reception halls are lined with them. Lighters, table sets, rosaries, and volcanic glass pendants look very impressive.
Necklaces and beads are also still popular. Not every stone, even among the more expensive ones, can boast such a rich, deep “appearance”. The gem shines brightly in the sun, creating a mystical, noble aura around the owner. This is why obsidian will never go out of style.
Do not forget that this material is glass, albeit volcanic. Obsidian jewelry requires careful, careful care. There are several rules that are best followed to ensure that the stone lasts a long time.
- You should not keep the gem in the same box with other jewelry. It is best to store it in a separate case, lined with soft fabric.
- When exposed to direct sunlight, the stone loses its rich obsidian color. Therefore, you should not wear it too often. At least don't wear it in plain sight.
- Protect your earrings, rings, and beads from bumps and falls. The gem not only breaks into pieces - its fragments are very sharp and dangerous to collect.
- The mineral loses its color characteristics if it sits in water for a long time, as well as under the influence of chemical reagents. Remove your jewelry when cleaning or even just washing dishes.
- The crystal needs to be cleaned from time to time. To do this, rinse it with cold water, then wipe dry with a soft cloth or sanitary napkin. The mineral should not be wet, otherwise its color and structure may be damaged.
Interesting Facts
A mirror made of black obsidian is considered a witch's mirror. In it you can see both the past and present, as well as the future. It is successfully used by fortune tellers to predict the future.
They also say that the obsidian mirror is a portal to enter parallel worlds. This mirror costs a lot of money.
Mysterious and mysterious obsidian has experienced a lot in its long life - they looked into the future through it, fought with its help in merciless battles, admired it at magnificent festivals and worshiped it in numerous temples.
In spite of everything, he dispassionately looks at all the vanity of the world... Although the devil's stone can do a lot, it does not have the power to change human nature and stop the wheel of samsara.
The ancients considered obsidian a dangerous gem, but its black color is just another side of the light of our soul, and it is with the help of this amazing mineral that we can fearlessly look into the face of our fate - into the unknown of our own soul.
