(re)Discover Black Obsidian

(re)Discover the Depth of Black Obsidian. Join us as we explore its history, metaphysical powers, and how to use it for protection.

Historical Origins

Black Obsidian, a mysterious volcanic glass, has an ancient history that stretches back to the earliest days of human civilization, possibly over 2.6 million years ago. Early hominids, such as Australopithecus garhi, Homo habilis, and Homo erectus, harnessed its properties for practical and, possibly, spiritual purposes. The name "Obsidian" can be attributed to Pliny the Elder, a Roman explorer, who stumbled upon it in Ethiopia and gave it his own name, Obsius. Across various cultures and time periods, Obsidian played a role in rituals, demon banishment, healing, and even human sacrifice, leaving an indelible mark on our past.

Black Obsidian Illustration

Geological Properties & Location(s)

Mineral Information: Volcanic, amorphous, siliceous glass
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 (Mohs)
Location(s): North America, South America, Africa, Asia, Europe
Okay to get wet? Yes, but not for a long time

Obsidian, distinct from minerals, is an igneous rock formed by rapidly cooling lava, bypassing crystal growth. Its classification as volcanic glass or lava stone stems from its glass-like texture. Typically jet black, Obsidian can adopt various hues due to mineral inclusions. Varieties like Mahogany Obsidian combine red and black, while Snowflake Obsidian blends white and black. Rare types such as Gold Sheen and Silver Sheen exhibit a metallic sheen, attributed to stretched wafer-like layers of trapped water vapor bubbles. Rainbow Obsidian and Red Sheen showcase iridescence originating from nanoparticles of Magnetite. Differing cooling rates during lava solidification contribute to the array of colors observed.

Most of the Obsidian on the market is from Mexico and the United States, with other notable deposits are in Argentina, Chile, Italy, New Zealand, and Turkey.

Metaphysical Properties

Beyond its captivating darkness, Black Obsidian possesses metaphysical properties that delve deep into the realms of protection, emotional release, and mental strength.

Chakra Alignment: Black Obsidian resonates strongly with the Root Chakra, promoting grounding and a sense of security. It establishes a firm foundation for personal growth.
Elemental Affinity: With its connection to both Earth and Fire elements, Black Obsidian embodies the transformative power of volcanic forces. This duality ignites inner passion and grounds it in the physical realm.
Astrological Influence: Black Obsidian aligns particularly well with Scorpio and Sagittarius signs. It complements Scorpio's intensity and aids Sagittarius in harnessing their boundless enthusiasm.
Emotional Regulation: This stone acts as a potent guardian, creating a protective barrier around your aura. It shields against negativity and helps in dispelling emotional blockages.
Focus and Objectivity: Black Obsidian's grounding energy enhances mental strength and clarity. It encourages self-reflection, allowing you to confront addictive behaviors and overcome them.

“I release negative energy within and around me.”

How to Use Black Obsidian

Explore various ways to incorporate Black Obsidian's magic into your life:


1. Place it by the Entrance: Position Black Obsidian near your home's entrance to act as a protective barrier, preventing negative energies from entering your space.	3. Jewelry: Adorn yourself with Black Obsidian jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets, to carry its protective energy with you throughout the day.
2. Desk or Workspace: Keep a Black Obsidian crystal on your desk or workspace to shield you from stress and negativity while enhancing focus and clarity.	4. Emotional Healing: Place Black Obsidian under your pillow or mattress to facilitate the release of emotional blockages during sleep, leading to a more balanced state of mind.