History
Obsidian has been used as a gemstone since antiquity. Imagine a fine piece of mahogany furniture that gleams like glass–that’s mahogany obsidian. Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that’s created when lava rich in feldspar and quartz is cooled too rapidly for crystals to form. It’s not considered to be a true mineral because its composition is too complex and it doesn’t have a crystalline structure.
In addition to its decorative use, obsidian has been used to make smooth and sharp surgical blades and arrowheads due to its lack of cleavage and acute edges when broken. Stone Age people used obsidian for weapons and implements, Native Americans formed it into arrowheads and the Incans used it for weapons, mirrors and masks.
Obsidian is named after Obsuis, a Roman who discovered a similar stone. Mahogany obsidian is a variety of obsidian that shows banding of black and red colors created from iron inclusions.
Metaphysical Properties
Obsidian is a powerful grounding stone that’s commonly known to give wearers the strength needed to stand on their own convictions against any enemy, protecting its owners. Many use it in times of need, to remove energy blocks and give new life to purposes and goals. Healers use it to relieve pain and improve circulation. Obsidian is also considered to be useful for those suffering from depression or addiction. Mahogany obsidian, in particular, is said to increase sexuality and sensuality, most notably the sense of touch.
Obsidian reminds us that birth and death are simultaneously and constantly present, and has always been associated with guardian spirits that watch over us. Throughout history people drew on that protective power in the weaponry they made from obsidian. It’s sometimes called “the stone of truth” because it encourages the surfacing of secrets and hidden emotions.
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