Obsidian

An Introduction to Obsidian

Obsidian forms when felsic lava solidifies quickly above Earth’s surface-either along the edges of the lava flow, around the volcano’s dome, or when lava comes in contact with water. The unique quality of felsic lava is its high concentration of silica. Within the lava, silica and oxygen combine, creating linked molecule chains called polymers. These linked molecules increase the viscosity, which slows the movement of the lava and the molecules within it. This keeps the silica molecules from forming crystals, as they would in Quartz. Instead, they form into a natural glass.

Obsidian is closely related to rhyolite and granite, although rhyolite and granite form when magma cools down much more slowly. Obsidian is rich in light elements derived from felsic lava, such as silicon, oxygen, aluminum, sodium, and potassium, which makes it an unusually lightweight gemstone.

As the lava cools, forming Obsidian, various impurities can become trapped. Some may crystalize into patterns like Snowlflake Obsidian, or change the color, such as in Mahogany Obsidian. Shimmering effects may also be created by these impurities or bubbles in the lava, most commonly creating Rainbow or Gold Sheen Obsidian.

Because of its extremely sharp edges and smooth, curved surface, obsidian was commonly used to forge sharp tools, such as knives and arrowheads used for hunting during prehistoric times.

Although the lack of crystalline structure makes Obsidian NOT technically a crystal, it’s beauty when carved, has taken it beyond practical use and given it a place among the gemstone family. Today, obsidian is still popular amongst jewelry makers, for both it’s beauty and it’s spiritual use as a protective Talisman.

Obsidian is well known for its safety and grounding properties. It can aid in protecting you against negative energy. This beautiful gemstone can help you to strengthen your root chakra, as well as supporting energy-grounding and both physical and emotional stability.

MENTAL

• Clears confusion, provides clarity, helps expand consciousness

• Protects against electromagnetic smog and other environmental stresses

PHYSICAL

• Aids with deep tissue healing

• Helps with digestion, and detoxifying the body

• Contributes to the flow of circulation

EMOTIONAL

• Often used for emotional healing sessions to help release and neutralize fears, negative emotions, and past experiences

• Gives the courage to explore the unknown

SPIRITUAL

• Stand safe and strong against psychic attacks

• Cleanses, soothes, protects and grounds the Root Chakra

• Strengthens the aura and heals the Solar Plexus

Snowflake Obsidian

MENTAL

• Helps to reframe negative patterns of thinking

• Allows you to see the value of your mistakes as well as your success

PHYSICAL

• Helps to treat veins, skin and eyes

• Helps with the circulatory and skeletal system

EMOTIONAL

• Increases calm during difficult situations

• Transforms isolation and loneliness into empowerment

SPIRITUAL

• Purifies energies and connects with Higher Vibrations

• Brings about a balance to Body, Mind and Spirit

• Remove negativity from yourself and your environment

CHAKRA

• Sacral

Mahogany Obsidian

MENTAL

• Revitalizes purpose, gives strength in times of need

• Helps you to know who you truly are

PHYSICAL

• Gentler healer than Black Obsidian

• Improves circulation

• Helps relieve pain

EMOTIONAL

• Transmutes negative energy and brings a sense of calm

• Often used for emotional healing sessions to help release and neutralize fears, negative emotions, and past experiences

SPIRITUAL

• Resonates with the Earth and cleanses and soothes the Root Chakra

• Strengthens the aura and heals the Sacral Chakra and Solar Plexus

• Increase your vibration for meditation

CHAKRA

• Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus

Rhyolite

A close cousin of obsidian, also formed from lava.

MENTAL

• Fully embrace your unique gifts

• Enhances self-worth and self-esteem

PHYSICAL

• Helps to treat skin disorders and infections

• Increases physical strength and muscle tone

EMOTIONAL

• Heart Healing and Support

• Brings emotional balance and helps with emotional release

SPIRITUAL

• Promotes creativity within the soul and helps you come fully into yourself

• Enhances inner wisdom and strengthens Body, Mind and Soul

CHAKRA

• Solar Plexus