Obsidian Beads

Obsidian beads are made from volcanic silica glass. Obsidian forms when lava, rich in silica, cools very quickly, such as when it comes into contact with water or snow.

It can be found in clear, gray, black or black with white or brown. Names applied to the differing colors include mahogany, red flame, midnight lace, jet black, pumpkin, brown, rainbow, gold sheen, silver sheen, green, lizard skin, and snowflake. The mottled black and white is known as snowflake obsidian, while the streaked black and white obsidian is called midnight lace. Black and brown obsidian is known as mahogany obsidian. Obsidian can also appear to be green when cut.

In addition to jewelry making, obsidian was commonly used by primitive peoples for tools and weapons, such as arrowheads, because it could be chipped into a sharp edged piece with other rocks. Trace element analyses have shown that native peoples traded this valuable commodity many hundreds of miles from the volcanic source areas along numerous trade routes.

Obsidian is abundant in nature, so obsidian beads are very affordable. Obsidian jewelry supplies primarily include cabochons and beads.

Obsidian is not a true gemstone, rather glass made by Mother Nature, but it is commonly categorized with gemstone beads. In jewelry making it should be given the same care as glass and not exposed to impact in pieces such as rings or bracelets.

Obsidian is not a birthstone, anniversary stone, or associated with any zodiac sign. However the aztecs believed obsidian was sacred to the Sky God Tezcatlipoca. They made mirrors out of it that were used for divination and fashioned eyes for idols in the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

common treatments: none

special care: avoid impact, abrasion, and harsh chemicals

hardness: 5 - 5.5