Collection: Golden Obsidian

Obsidian is a silica-rich volcanic rock. There are different types of obsidian. They differ due to the rock's chemical composition. Obsidian is actually a natural glass. It forms during an eruption of silica-rich lava with less than 3% water. Upon exiting the volcano, it cools very rapidly, freezing the crystallization process.

This can be compared to a piece of lava suddenly solidifying as it leaves the volcano. The direct consequence of this phenomenon is the inability of the rock to crystallize. The result is the creation of a volcanic glass with a uniform texture, which is called an amorphous mineral. Furthermore, obsidian has sharp edges and very fine blades. It is a natural mineral with a complex composition.

Obsidian is essentially composed of silicon dioxide, about 70% or more. Its fracture is conchoidal (i.e., furrowed with curved and concentric striations) and its hardness is 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It has different colors and reflections due to the volcano where it was discovered and its various inclusions. It should be noted that each deposit, linked to a volcano, provides a different obsidian.

Green, brown, gray or black, it can sometimes have reflections of gold, silver, or even all the colors of the rainbow, (effect produced by the presence of hematites or magnesite). It also happens that two colors of obsidian mix.

Obsidian: a stone of protection

Obsidian has been found in some sharp objects dating back approximately 2 to 4 million years, particularly in Kenya. Archaeological excavations have discovered knives, arrows, and spears. Depending on its composition, obsidian can sometimes be polished to make rustic mirrors.

As early as 7,000 BC, obsidian was widely used in surgery due to its cutting properties. Evidence of trepanation, the removal of a portion of the skull bone either to clean a wound or to attract spirits, is found.

In Mesopotamia, traces of obsidian blades have been identified as early as 5,000 BC.

In Egypt, obsidian was brought back from the Red Sea, Greece, or Italy. The Egyptians used it for its beauty, mystery, and value. They made the eyes of their statues, notably those in the mask of Tutankhamun (1323 BC). Obsius, returning from Ethiopia, brought back obsidian and decided to give it their name, obsidianus in Latin. Obsidian was used to make all kinds of ornamental objects, jewelry, and tools.

However, in Mexico, there is another legend. When the natives were short of food, the men went hunting, where they had to face wild beasts, even mammoths. They left their wives and children under the protection of the elders. Then, one day, the tribe was attacked by wild and ferocious hyenas. But the elders no longer had any weapons when young Obsid, son of the most valiant warrior, saw a shiny black stone on the ground. He tied it securely to a piece of wood. He threw this makeshift weapon at one of the hyenas, which screamed in pain, causing all the others to flee. The entire tribe honored young Obsid and granted him the status of warrior, and the stone was thus named in his name.

Among the Navajo tribe, obsidian was one of the four sacred stones. Obsidian Mountain corresponds to Mount Hesperus. In some creation stories, the human heart is said to have been created by the gods from obsidian.

For generations, magicians, sorcerers, and prophets have used polished obsidian as a mirror. They claimed to be able to read the future through it. But it was Dr. John Dee (1527-1608) who used it again to spread his prophecies. It became very famous, and the story goes that it helped foil certain plots against the English crown.

The main obsidian deposits are located in Mexico, Madagascar, the United States, etc.

This variety of obsidian is black with golden highlights or glitter. Its appearance is shiny and its reflections stand out particularly in the sun. This stone, mounted on a piece of jewelry, is incredibly beautiful.

During archaeological excavations, statuettes of Emperor Augustus (63 BC / 14 AD) were created for him, the first Roman emperor. This stone has also been found in India, Italy, and on the ocean coasts of Spain.

Golden obsidian, like all obsidians, is a natural volcanic glass formed from lava and rapidly cooled. It contains over 75% silica and layers of micro-inclusions of gas that give it a golden sheen.

Golden obsidian is not a true mineral, as its chemical content is inconsistent and it does not form crystals. Its composition varies depending on the volcano from which it originates.

It has a conchoidal fracture shape, which makes it easy to break. It is not recommended for making certain jewelry, especially anklets or even rings. Large cabochons or flat stones show this stone off particularly well.

Golden obsidian is an extrusive rock, as it formed above ground due to contact with cold air or water.

Golden obsidian strengthens grounding and allows one to fully enjoy the present moment. It encourages one to keep their feet on the ground and not get lost in pointless daydreaming.

This stone guides you toward the future while freeing you from the grip of the past. It releases childhood trauma, buried fears, and anxieties. Its wearer can release negative energies and balance their energy fields.

This variety of obsidian, like black obsidian or celestial eye, brings out repressed events. Be careful to choose the right time to use it, because you must be ready to release all these blockages. It encourages introspection and sheds light on the dark areas of the past.

Golden obsidian allows one to reach self-truth and acquire wisdom. It serves to evacuate what is useless in order to make room for happiness and well-being. It gives strength, determination, and charisma.

Furthermore, golden obsidian is a very powerful protective stone. Knowing that they are protected, its wearer opens up more easily to others. They demonstrate compassion and empathy. This stone provides greater clarity of mind and humility.

Golden obsidian, like other obsidians, must be handled with care due to its power.