Physical and chemical characteristics of Black Obsidian
Black Obsidian is a glassy volcanic rock, rich in silica, with a chemical composition similar to quartz (SiO₂), but without a crystalline structure. It is formed by the rapid cooling of lava. It has a hardness of 5–5.5 on the Mohs scale and a sharp conchoidal fracture. Its glossy black color is often uniform, but can have brown or silvery undertones. It is the stone of inner truth, psychic protection, and the transformation of shadows. It acts as a mirror of the soul and a blade that cuts through illusions.
Family of belonging, sister stones and colors
Obsidian is not a mineral, but a natural amorphous rock. Its spiritual siblings are Black Tourmaline, Shungite, and Hematite. Its predominant color is deep black, with glassy reflections. It is the stone of spiritual night, of raw awareness, and intense protection.
Most important deposits and countries
The main deposits are found in Mexico, Iceland, Turkey, Armenia, Japan, and Italy (Lipari, Pantelleria). In ancient times, it was used to make blades and ritual mirrors. Mesoamerican shamans used it for divination and travel between worlds.
Zodiac – Black Obsidian
Black Obsidian is associated with the sign of Scorpio (October 23 – November 22), an intense, transformative, and mysterious Water sign. It helps Scorpios work through their unconscious shadows, protect themselves psychically, and be reborn with inner strength. The associated planet is Pluto. The symbolic constellation is the Void Serpent: guardian of the hidden depths.
Black Obsidian Element
Ruling element: Fire and Earth. It acts on the first (root) chakra, bringing deepest blockages to the surface and offering a powerful cathartic effect. It is the stone of karmic clearing, protection from psychic attacks, and conscious shadow work.
The Divinatory Ways and Black Obsidian
Norse Runes – Hagalaz
Hagalaz is the rune of transformative chaos. Black Obsidian is its blade, shattering illusion to reveal authenticity.
Tarot – Arcanum: Death
The Death Arcanum speaks of endings and rebirth. Black Obsidian embodies its purifying and liberating power.
I Ching – Hexagram 18: The Amendment
This hexagram speaks of profound correction. Obsidian guides the process of purification and healing of the invisible.
Chinese Zodiac – Black Obsidian
Sign: Snake
Element: Fire
The Serpent is wise, occult, and regenerative. Obsidian supports it in internal alchemy and energetic defense.
Tibetan Zodiac – Black Obsidian
Sign: Dragon
Element: Fire/Earth
The Tibetan Dragon is powerful and unpredictable. Along with Obsidian, it embodies the transformative power born from confronting the shadow.
Ancient Egyptian Zodiac – Black Obsidian
Sign: Anubis
Deity: Anubis
Anubis, god of the dead and guide of souls in the afterlife, is the guardian of Black Obsidian. With him, this stone becomes a portal between worlds and an instrument of profound spiritual initiation.
The symbolic guardians of the stones
The Keeper of Black Obsidian is the Guardian of the Threshold. He watches over the passage between light and darkness. With Obsidian, one can face fears, navigate crises, and emerge renewed.
Shamanism
In the shamanic path, Black Obsidian is the stone of the Mirror of Shadows. It is linked to the Spirit of the Night Jaguar: hunter of illusions, protector of the true Self. Used in purification rites, death-rebirth journeys, and work to break toxic bonds.
Her Spirit Animal is the Black Raven: messenger of the invisible, singer of uncomfortable truths. With Obsidian, the Raven guides in the darkness and teaches us to see what the eye fears to face.
Obsidian Related Products
