Back to Crystals & Stones
Obsidian
CommonRoot Chakra

Obsidian

Also known as: Volcanic Glass, Apache Tears (nodular form)

Volcanic Glass (Mineraloid)

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly. Used by humans for tools and protection for tens of thousands of years, it is a powerful stone for truth and psychic protection.

Healing Properties

  • Strong protection and grounding
  • Assists shadow work
  • Clears psychic debris
  • Reveals hidden truths

Emotional Benefits

  • •Draws out deep emotional truth
  • •Helps confront hidden fears
  • •Provides emotional catharsis

Spiritual Benefits

  • •Strong psychic protection
  • •Assists shadow integration
  • •Clears ancestral patterns

How to Use

Place near entryways for protection, hold during shadow work, or carry Black Obsidian to maintain energetic boundaries.

Meditation

Hold during deep inner work to reveal hidden truths or blocks.

Placement in Home

Near front door for protection, or in a designated shadow work sacred space.

Traditional Uses

Used as a protective talisman and cutting tool across many ancient cultures. Not a substitute for medical treatment.

Ethical Sourcing

Generally low concern. Widely available from volcanic regions.

Quick Facts

Mineral Class
Mineraloid (Volcanic glass)
Crystal System
Amorphous
Chemical Formula
SiO₂ + MgO + Fe₃O₄
Mohs Hardness
5–5.5
Transparency
Opaque
Luster
Vitreous
Planetary
Pluto, Saturn
Typical Price
$3–$40

Care Guide

Water safe
Sunlight safe

Cleansing

Running waterSound healingSmoke cleansingMoonlight

Charging

SunlightEarth burial

Associations

Zodiac

SagittariusScorpio

Element

EarthFire

Intentions

ProtectionGroundingTruthHealing wounds

Origins

MexicoUSAIcelandJapanIndonesia

Related Crystals

Black TourmalineSmoky QuartzShungiteJet