What is Obsidian?

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock. It is formed when molten lava cools rapidly without forming crystals and is often prized for its shiny, glassy appearance. In fact, the word obsidian actually comes from the Latin word “obsianus”, which means “glassy or glossy.” Obsidian is widely used for jewelry and decorative items, and it has been used for thousands of years for tools, weapons and sculptures.

What are the Properties of Obsidian?

Obsidian is a dark, shiny natural glass that usually has a black or dark green color. It is characterized by an irregular or banded texture with a metallic sheen. Obsidian has many other properties that make it an ideal material for jewelry or decorative items. First, obsidian is naturally very hard, making it difficult to fracture. This is why obsidian tools were able to be made sharp enough to cut through a variety of materials. It is also very brittle, so it easily chips, cracks or flakes, but can still be polished to a smooth glassy finish. In addition, obsidian is very light in weight, meaning it is easy to work with and it doesn’t wear down tools as quickly. Finally, because obsidian is a natural glass, it can have various colors, patterns and inclusions depending on the type and origin of the glass.

Uses of Obsidian Today

Obsidian is still popular today for its beauty and strength. It is one of the most popular stones for jewelry today, and it is used for ornamental items and decorative pieces. Obsidian is also popular for metaphysical and spiritual uses, as it is thought to be a protective stone. It is also used in knife and blade making, as it can easily be shaped into a sharp object. Finally, obsidian is used in lapidary work and in glass sculptures and art pieces.

Regardless of its uses, obsidian is a beautiful, strong and unique material that has been used for thousands of years. Its unique properties make it a popular choice for jewelry, decorative items and tools, and its beauty is unparalleled. Obsidian is a unique and useful material that is worth recognizing and appreciating.