Obsidian is formed from lava from volcanic eruptions that have cooled. Once cooled the rock forms as solid volcanic glass. It is mostly black but comes in a number of colours including rainbow stones that are green, purple, brown, green and blue. Due to its hardness in ancient times it was appreciated for its razor-sharp edges and mostly used in spears and arrows. These days it has been used for assembling machines, visors, maces, mirrors and ornaments.
Colors:
Though black is the common color, Obsidian can also be found in a pale brown, dappled with black, and black with silver and gold polish. It is famous for the Snowflake obsidian scattered with white-patches where pieces of the rock have started to take shape. The most valued obsidian observed by the gemologists is the rainbow obsidian range with lilac, emerald and gold-bands of colour.
Sources:
Obsidian can be found wherever volcanic activity has occured. Most significant sources nowadays are Afghanistan, Japan, Mexico, South America, and important areas of the USA. The San Carlos Apache Reservation found in Arizona, USA, generates an appealing banded diversity of obsidian known as “Apache Tears”.
Holistic Aspects:
Obsidian assists shielding wearers against depression. Obsidian helps protect against depression and block negativity. It is an excellent mineral, which can soak up and change pessimistic energies to optimistic.
Further Reading