Obsidian

Image used with permission from
Dad's Rock Shop

Obsidian is a type of naturally occurring glass; it is the result of volcanic lava coming in contact with water. Often the lava pours into a lake or ocean and is cooled quickly. This process produces a glassy texture in the resulting rock. While pure obsidian is always dark in appearance, the color varies depending on the presence of impurities. In some stones, the inclusion of small, white, radially clustered crystals of cristobalite in the black glass produce a blotchy or snowflake pattern - snowflake obsidian.

Obsidian was highly valued in certain Stone Age cultures because, like flint, it can be fractured to produce sharp blades or arrowheads. It may also have been polished to create early mirrors.

Pre-Columbian Mesoamericans' use of obsidian was extensive and sophisticated; including carved and worked obsidian for tools and decorative objects. The ancient Mesoamericans also made a type of sword with obsidian blades mounted in a wooden body. Called a Maquahuitl, the weapon was capable of inflicting terrible injuries, combining the sharp cutting edge of an obsidian blade with the ragged cut of a serrated weapon.

Obsidian today is used in cardiac surgery, as well-crafted obsidian blades have a cutting edge up to five times sharper than high-quality steel surgical scalpels, with the edge of the blade reaching veritable molecular thinness. It produces a cleaner cut and less tissue trauma, which translates to faster healing and less scar tissue.

Metaphysically, Obsidian is a stone of serenity and purity; it can help to prevent negative energy from affecting you, and can also help keep your thoughts from becoming negative. Snowflake Obsidian encourages understanding and helps us to realize that we may still be clinging to ways of thinking that no longer serve us. It can also help us to change the way we think about some things and teaches us the value of our mistakes as well as our successes.

Physically, Snowflake Obsidian relieves pain and aids with circulation and smooth skin. Snowflake Obsidian treats disorders of the veins and the skeletal system. It can also help in clearing the eyes and improving blood circulation.




Glossary