If you want changes in life, wear jewelry with obsidian

Obsidian is a stone that can easily be found where a volcanic eruption has occurred.
This is nothing more than volcanic glass - frozen lava. The material has attracted the attention of people for a long time - already in the Stone Age, weapons and jewelry were made from it. The mineral was valued both for its physical qualities: hardness and sharp chips, and for its “fiery” origin. Although arrows, spears, and knives made from this rock were replaced first by bronze and then by steel, the crystal is still valued. Firstly, the stone is easily polished and can be processed in skillful hands. And secondly, obsidian has properties of a different nature - magical and healing. We will talk about them in this article, and also explain who the obsidian talisman is suitable for and who is contraindicated.

Origin of obsidian

The mineral chip is very sharp, and it is easy to process. Therefore, obsidian weapons were already in use in the Stone Age. In the Bronze and Iron Ages, volcanic crystals began to decorate the interiors of palaces, tombs, and temples. According to legend, it was brought to Europe from Ethiopia by a warrior named Obsidius, from whom the name of the stone comes from in all European languages.

There are legends that the gem is Satan’s claw. According to one of these legends, Cain killed Abel with a volcanic stone. Another myth says that the devil broke off his claws when he was cast out of heaven. Obsidian was also called the stone of the dead. Volcanoes, in the vents of which it is often found, were considered in ancient Greece and Rome to be gateways to the afterlife.

In Central America, warriors made macuahuitli, a type of sword made from obsidian. With such a wooden club, lined with sharp spikes-blades, they got used to cutting off the heads of the horses of the conquistadors, but could not pierce the steel armor. Still, the mineral may be sharper than steel, but much more fragile. Macuahuitl was enough for a maximum of one battle - pieces of volcanic glass chipped and broke.

Obsidian has a rich and interesting history. There is more than one legend about its origin.

The North American Indians called the crystal the tears of the Apaches. Legend has it that when the most powerful warriors of the tribe were surrounded by enemies, they threw themselves into the mouth of a volcano so that their opponents would not capture them as slaves. According to one version of the legend, obsidian is the tears of these warriors who entered the kingdom of the dead alive, and now miss their family and friends. On the other hand, the tears that their mothers, wives, and daughters shed for the brave men.

In modern times, craftsmen from the Faberge jewelry house rediscovered obsidian for European high society. By that time, the popularity of the stone had long faded, but the skillful jewelry of the best jewelers revived it. During the obsidian boom, even the most distinguished ladies and gentlemen wore the mineral. Subsequently, the furor subsided, the stone went out of fashion, but not completely - it is still appreciated.

Description of the mineral

The color of obsidian is mostly black, however, sometimes there are grayish samples, as well as red-brown ones. There are also varieties with polychrome coloring. There are three of them. This is about:

• peanut mineral (contains grains resembling groundnuts); • snowy (has white inclusions on a black background); • iridescent (combines blue, blue and green iridescent shades).

Of those mentioned, the last example is of greatest value in jewelry. Its polished surface resembles the stains left by petroleum products on water. It is extremely rare and costs correspondingly high.

Where is the mineral mined?

The stone is formed during eruptions, when molten rocks ejected by a volcano freeze so quickly that they do not have time to crystallize. From a chemical point of view, obsidian is silicon oxide.

Obsidian is not classified as a precious stone, or even a semi-precious one.

The mineral is mined in regions where volcanoes actively erupt:

• in Central America - El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico;
• in Japan;
• in the Canary Islands;
• in Iceland;
• in Indonesia;
• in Italy on the island of Sicily;
• in Russia there are deposits on the Kuril Islands and Kamchatka.

The reserves of the gem can be considered inexhaustible. Volcanic eruptions occur regularly and will continue to occur for a very long time. Therefore, obsidian is not classified as a precious stone, or even as a semi-precious one.

Several unusual varieties are mined in Mexico, such as red or mahogany obsidian. There are also golden specimens there, which have no analogues anywhere in the world. Occasionally you come across multi-colored stones with a matte tint, which are highly valued as an ornamental material.

Obsidian - a stone of beauty

The fiery mineral is used in construction. The heat insulating material perlite is obtained from it. It is more in demand as jewelry and ornamental material. Carefully polished, it becomes smooth, with a unique shine. From it they create:

• jewelry that is resistant to intensive use;
• interior items – writing sets, clocks, glasses, vases;
• rosary, keychains;
• souvenirs;
• collectible figures.

The unique properties of obsidian were discovered in Europe in the 19th century by the great Carl Faberge. Since then, the popularity of obsidian gizmos has been consistently high.

Types and colors of obsidian

The mineral shines like glass and is easy to process. Completely transparent obsidian is extremely rare; most often it is translucent. The most common stone colors are:

• Black stone is the most widespread variety; it is the one most often thought of when talking about a mineral. It owes its hue to inclusions of magnetite.
• Brown obsidian, known as the gem that brings harmony. It also promotes spiritual growth.
• A silvery gem, which is called the stone of spirits, shamans, and sages.

Rock varieties with patterns are classified into a separate group.

• A peanut stone that, when cut, resembles a nut.
• Rainbow obsidian, the rarest variety. Its shimmers and streaks of green, blue, and gray colors resemble spilled gasoline.
• Snowy obsidian - silvery inclusions in its black thickness look like snowflakes.

Finally, the third group of obsidian varieties is called "shin". These are solid black and brown stones that shimmer when you look at them from different angles.

• A green stone that has an olive tint.
• Californian variety, also known as blue.
• Golden obsidian, brownish, giving off a metallic sheen. A subspecies of this tire, which is mined in the Caucasus, is called the “cat's eye” gem.
• Plum Shin, or purple mineral, with a reddish and violet tint.

Combination of black obsidian with other stones

Obsidian is a stone that obeys the element of Earth, so it is recommended to combine it with gems that also fall under this element:

• onyx;
• turquoise;
• agate;
• malachite;
• nephritis;
• aventurine.

If obsidian is to be worn not as a simple decoration, but as a protective talisman, it must first be worn separately from other gems. As soon as the owner of a volcanic mineral feels a surge of positive energy and strength from it, you can combine it with other stones.

A stone that is strictly forbidden to be combined with obsidian is ruby.

Obsidian is also combined with stones that belong to the element of fire:

• Tiger's Eye;
• pomegranate;
• diamond;
• hematite;
• cornelian.

Black obsidian looks unusual and exotic in combination with other minerals in jewelry.
If a volcanic mineral is used for meditation, it is recommended to combine it with rock crystal. The result is a strong pair that will help cleanse the chakras and restore energy balance.

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.

Obsidian products

Ease of processing has made obsidian a favorite material for stone cutters. Large and miniature, expensive and commonly available items are made from it.

Tabletop sets

Obsidian is a stone of leaders, winners, self-sufficient people. It is not surprising that the material is used to make desktop business sets. The assortment ranges from ordinary to status (13–80 thousand rubles).

The color is black or brown, with a subtle pattern, different styles. There is no shame in presenting them to your boss or business partner. A special style of execution and color scheme is an option for a business woman.

Collection material

The color variety and affordability of the stone allow anyone to feel like a seasoned collector. Tumbling or original units purchased personally will not require significant financial investments. But they will make you happy and raise your self-esteem.

Large animal sculptures or delicately crafted miniature netsuke figures are the lot of wealthy people. The collection can become a family treasure.

Magic paraphernalia

Magic balls and pyramids are made from obsidian, and “mirrors” are polished. When rotating in the dark, images appear on a shiny surface that predict fate or the development of events. The obsidian idol energizes magicians.

Other options

The market offers obsidian souvenirs of varying complexity of processing, material, and dimensions. A prestigious gift is considered a chess set (about 200 thousand rubles), a knife with an engraved handle - 8–9 thousand rubles. The box (2-3 thousand rubles), depending on the size and style of execution, will become a repository for business papers or ladies' accessories. Dice-cubes (400 rubles), rosary beads, and a keychain with a branded car logo (200–250 rubles) will be appreciated by many.

How to distinguish obsidian from a fake

To distinguish a natural gem from a fake, you need to remember what obsidian looks like. Real stones have deep, rich colors, they are translucent and sparkle in the sun. If you hold it in your palms, it will remain cold, like most other minerals.

Only natural stone has the magical properties of a real “claw of Satan.”

If you try to scratch the crystal, it will leave a deep mark. At the same time, it will be clear whether they are selling you an original or a painted piece of plastic. Unfortunately, not every seller will allow you to conduct such an experiment, even if his product is completely natural.

There is another way to check the authenticity of volcanic glass. To do this, place it in water for two to three minutes. The color of the obsidian will change slightly, but will quickly return to normal if you immediately wipe the gem dry.

You should also pay attention to the amount the seller wants. The price of obsidian, especially rare ones with multi-colored inclusions, cannot be too low. For the best bracelets or beads made of rainbow volcanic glass, you will have to pay several thousand rubles.

It is especially important not to fall for scammers if you are buying more than just jewelry. Artificial stone does not have the magical properties of the real “claw of Satan”, and is also not suitable for lithotherapy. So you need to choose very carefully.

Setting and cut

Obsidian is polished into cabochons or geometric shapes. Flat inserts are left blank or engraved, different subjects are carved into stone.

It is believed that white frames suit him aesthetically. However, ornamental obsidian is rarely given a precious frame. The best specimens are encased in 925 sterling silver. Most often it is a white or yellow jewelry alloy.

For magical purposes, silver jewelry is used (platinum and gold are not suitable).

The healing properties of the mineral

Our primitive ancestors knew that the mineral obsidian can alleviate many diseases. Modern lithotherapists confirm its healing properties and importance for human health.

• Volcanic glass protects against hypothermia, frostbite, and colds.
• The stone has a beneficial effect on the digestive tract. Thanks to its effect, ulcers heal, erosions and gastritis disappear, and nutrient absorption improves.
• A bracelet with obsidian, if worn on the left hand, can restore normal vascular tone. Thanks to this, pressure, both high and low, returns to “healthy” numbers.
• The gem heals the nervous system. Its energy helps patients recover faster from strokes and traumatic brain injuries. The crystal also helps with neuroses, depression, and anxiety.
• If you keep the stone close to the places of fractures, sprains, and cuts, it can speed up the tissue healing process.
• Obsidian looks like a piece of the night sky. Perhaps this is why it is believed that it saves from the ailments of the dark. Such a talisman can act no worse than a dream catcher. For example, children who have a gem hanging over their cradle are less tormented by nightmares, fear of the dark, and enuresis.

Do not overuse volcanic glass. If you wear it for too long, it can lead to irritability, blood pressure surges, poor sleep and appetite.

If you start wearing a gem, then remember that its abilities are best enhanced by a frame made of copper or silver.

Obsidian as a talisman for different zodiac signs

The volcanic mineral is picky in its patronage - it will not be favorable to all signs of the Zodiac.

Who can wear obsidian:

• Aries - will rapidly move up the career ladder.
• Taurus - apathy will disappear, determination will appear.
• Gemini - the stone will give them determination and help attract financial flows.
• Leo - a mineral that will help change your character, adding softness and calmness.
• Libra will become more decisive.
• Scorpio - the gem will make them bolder and more persistent, and help them cope with stress.
• Sagittarius - your creative streak will begin to reveal itself, your talents will reveal themselves.
• Capricorn - the stone will breathe into them the vital energy necessary for decisive actions, thanks to which life will change for the better.
• Aquarius - intuition will sharpen, a creative streak will appear.
• Pisces will become more confident in themselves, which will help them achieve their goals.

Cancer and Virgo - they are strictly forbidden to contact obsidian. Even if the black mineral is worn as decoration for a short period of time, the mineral will make Cancers and Virgos insecure and increase suspiciousness and suspiciousness.

Black obsidian is a unique mineral of great importance in various fields. It is not only a beautiful gem for jewelry. The pebble has powerful energy and promises its owner to attract good luck, protect against negativity, and help in his career.

The magical properties of obsidian

In terms of magical properties, obsidian stone is among the leaders. Its features are not too diverse, but they more than pay off with powerful energy. This is the talisman of seers and sages. It helps you see the world in all its aspects. Anyone who has achieved harmony with a volcanic amulet will always find a way out of the most difficult situations. The mineral releases emotions and feelings, even those that have long been stored in the depths of the soul.

According to Eastern beliefs, a crystal is capable of revealing to the wearer the secrets of his previous incarnations and helping to work through karmic traumas. Meditation on obsidian “eyes” is psychologically difficult work, but thanks to it you will be able to overcome complexes and deep-seated mental problems.

If you have already freed yourself from psychological trauma, then the gem will begin to reveal to you the secrets of the universe. The talisman can make the owner attractive to people. He will become more sensitive to their joys and sorrows, which is necessary for a psychologist or fortune teller. Thanks to the stone, you can advance very far in spiritual development, find inspiration, original ideas, and strengthen your connection with the astral plane.

For spouses who wear obsidian rings as wedding rings, the mineral gives harmony in family life. It helps to maintain fidelity, maintain romance and passion in long-term relationships, and eliminates scandals and mistrust. Shamans, psychics, and magicians will be able to establish contact with the spirits of the elements and higher powers. Clairvoyants will improve their abilities and see clearer and more accurate pictures of the possible future.

Properties

The main properties of the stone come down to supporting energetic effects and protecting the owner from negativity:

• giving strength to the spirit, sharpening the intellect and thinking;
• assistance with finances and troubleshooting;
• support in any aspirations and activities.

It will support your health, strengthen your mood and give you energy in the eyes of others.

Physical and chemical

Black obsidian and its other types are very similar in physical and chemical characteristics to ordinary granite. Any variety of it has a certain transparency and shine.

The chemical composition contains:

• silicon oxide – up to 70-75%;
• iron and magnesium oxides – up to 5% each;
• aluminosilicates (mica) – up to 10%;
• water – about 1%.

The stone has a hardness of up to 5 Mohs points (for comparison, a diamond has 10 points). The overall level of strength is low. The resulting fracture is of high roughness and porosity. Has the ability to polish and cut.

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Valuable coniferous coal from under the water column - black jet

Density – up to 2.5 g/cubic. cm (diamond has about 3.5 g/cc).

The melting point is in the range of 1200-1500 C (for steel - about 1500 C). It does not conduct electricity and is not radioactive.

Medicinal

It doesn’t matter whether obsidian is rainbow or just black, its healing capabilities have been known since ancient times and are confirmed by modern science.

It helps with sleep disturbances and “night” illnesses: if the child has nightmares, is afraid of the dark, or is tormented by enuresis. Besides:

• short contact with glass will help with hypothermia and colds;
• the digestive system returns to normal, and the wounds in it heal, the process of food absorption is qualitatively rebuilt;
• the nervous system receives help, head and cardiovascular injuries go away better;
• physical injuries such as abrasions, cuts and fractures heal faster.

Despite all its beneficial properties, it is not recommended to deal with it too often. Obsidian stone with prolonged contact leads to surges in blood pressure, increased irritability and poor sleep.

Magical

The magical properties of any obsidian are in the first positions: strong energy and the versatility of its flow guarantee reinforcement for any person.

Eastern magicians believe: volcanic glass works with karmic aspects and restores their deviations, eliminates mental unrest. For diviners, black obsidian is a talisman that helps the soul and feelings.

Obsidian will give strength and help spiritual development: inspiration and external attractiveness will appear. New ideas and fresh views will come into consciousness. For practicing magicians and psychics, it is a powerful tool in communicating with other worlds: in this case, abilities will noticeably increase.

As for its meaning in everyday life, wearing a stone or other type of jewelry aligns the aura with harmony. Spouses are in an atmosphere of trust and romance, and people without a couple have a greater chance of starting a long-term relationship.

Astrological

In terms of energy, the stone can slow down or speed up mental, mental and physiological processes. This directly depends on the date and place of birth, so the effect of using a talisman or decoration is often unpredictable. Only an experienced astrologer or fortune teller can make an accurate forecast.

The general criteria for changes are as follows:

• a person receives protection from evil intentions, his own goals seem to be highlighted, and they become easier to achieve;
• negative factors around the owner subside, a working and calm atmosphere appears;
• increasing readiness for change.

Compatibility with the signs of the Zodiac was noted back in ancient times. It helps some, harms others.

Who is obsidian suitable for according to their zodiac sign?

First of all, among those for whom obsidian stone is suitable, astrologers name the following signs:

• Aquarius;
• Capricorn;
• Twins;
• Sagittarius.

Thanks to the gem, these people will become more decisive and at the same time lucky. The fiery energy of the stone will help them realize their wildest dreams and achieve success. It will be very easy to achieve harmony with volcanic glass; you just need to take care of the stone and protect it from damage.

When purchasing an obsidian talisman, consider compatibility with the stone.

On the contrary, Aries , Libra , Virgo , Taurus , Cancer, and Leo . It will make them too dreamy, flighty and out of touch with reality. This is fraught with problems in your personal life, at work, in relationships with friends.

Separately, it should be said about the features of the mineral for Scorpio . On the one hand, volcanic glass will help him find his inner core, become stronger and braver. For a shy person born under this sign, the gem will become a real lifeline. But those Scorpios who do not suffer from excessive modesty and gentleness will be made by the stone too selfish, authoritarian and cynical.

As for other signs, obsidian is neutral in relation to them. If you wear a talisman with a satanic claw too often, this is fraught with conflicts with others, withdrawal from reality, depression, and neuroses. But a mineral with which you have achieved harmony and wear only occasionally will definitely contribute to spiritual growth.

Description

Black obsidian is an igneous rock. When lava pouring onto the ground cools quickly enough, this contributes to the normal crystallization of the melt. Strictly speaking, this is the “birth” of black obsidian. Slower cooling forms volcanic glass, the varieties of which include stone.

Black obsidian consists of more than half silicon oxide, then alumina. The hue of the mineral is determined by the presence of magnetic ore, which gives the mineral its deep black color.

Monochromatic and uniform stones are quite rare. But even if the surface of obsidian is painted black without visible transitions or cloudiness of color, under a microscope you can see peculiar stripes. Often the arrangement of the lines indicates in which direction the lava flowed.

The structure is amorphous, dense. Despite its high hardness - 6 on the Mohs scale - the stone is very fragile and can easily break. It is for this reason that jewelry with black obsidian must be worn with extreme caution, protecting it from mechanical influences and shocks.

The texture of the mineral is massive or foamy. The gem lends itself very well to processing and polishing, after which it acquires a pure glass shine.

Healing properties

Peanut obsidian pendant
In lithotherapy manuals published in different countries, obsidian is mentioned as one of the most important healing stones among more than 400 rocks and minerals. Reviews are devoted to the influence of physical and chemical characteristics, origin on the therapeutic effect, and significance for the signs of the Zodiac. Modern lithotherapists claim that obsidian can alleviate the course of diseases and speed up recovery.

The value of the stone for health:

• has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and liver;
• stabilizes blood pressure and kidney function;
• used in hematology, for long-term non-healing wounds;
• helps improve metabolism and strengthen the immune system;
• used for nervous disorders and increased anxiety.

Thanks to the therapeutic effect of the stone, erosions and ulcers heal faster and the absorption of nutrients improves. When wearing an obsidian bracelet on the left hand, vascular tone and blood pressure are normalized. The energy of volcanic glass helps restore the body after heart attacks and strokes.

Obsidian can be used for deep emotional upheavals and experiences that cause emotional pain. The stone gives strength and supports in confronting troubles. It also helps to find resources for an active life in one’s own body, and helps to learn useful lessons from traumatic situations.

Black volcanic glass helps to get rid of various phobias. Helps to cope with past negative experiences and associated mental and physical pain. Internal unused reserves are revealed and perception increases.

Important!

It should be noted that the information about the healing properties of stones given in reference books and encyclopedias on lithotherapy is based on folklore sources and publications on traditional medicine of past centuries. Information about the healing effects of rocks and minerals has not been tested in clinical studies. This is the result of centuries-old observations and application experience.

How to choose and wear

It is necessary to buy a stone from a trusted seller. It must be remembered that obsidian absorbs energy.

You should not purchase jewelry from a person who is in a bad mood. Negative energy will be transferred to the mineraloid. The purchase will only bring harm.

Black obsidian was considered a product of dark forces. It cannot be transmitted after dark.

When choosing, you can give only two pieces of advice:

1. When you go into a store, buy the stone you see first. This advice is based on intuition. If the eye intuitively stops at the product, this indicates that the stone chose the owner itself and attracted his gaze. He is ready to serve him faithfully. You couldn't ask for a better purchase.
2. If your gaze doesn’t stop at anything, then you need to hold a few jewelry in your hands and listen to your feelings. If there is rejection, then the purchase is not worth making. But if you really want to buy this particular thing, then your feelings do not deceive you. The stone will only bring joy and relieve problems.

Obsidian jewelry is worn by both men and women. Products for men include a ring and a signet.

For women, jewelers offer beads, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and brooches.

Black and snow obsidian will decorate your everyday wardrobe. For an evening dress, you need to select stones of rare colors with iridescence.

Let's distinguish a fake

Obsidian is such an inexpensive material, but they are trying to counterfeit it too. Usually using black glass. Although this doesn’t make much sense - obsidian is an inexpensive stone.

How to spot a fake:

1. Obsidian is opaque. But in glass, even black, you can see some depth.
2. Perform a "thermal conductivity test". will remain cold for some time , glass will warm up almost immediately when touched.
3. Natural volcanic glass in jewelry has a bright color and shine .

Sometimes sea-rolled pieces of ordinary bottle glass can be passed off as obsidian. It is easy to distinguish them - volcanic glass, unlike ordinary glass, is not transparent.