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Chemical Formula: SiO2
Color: Dark green to dark brown and black
Hardness: 5.0- 5.5
Specific Gravity: 2.6
Obsidian is a hard volcanic glass that displays shiny
and curved surfaces. It is formed as a result of
volcanic lava coming in contact with water. This
glassy, lustrous mineral is found in lava flows, and
obsidian stones can be massive. Obsidian is formed
when viscous lava (from volcanoes) cools rapidly. The
stone sometimes may contain small bubbles of air
aligned along layers that produce interesting effects
such as a golden sheen, known as Sheen Obsidian or a
rainbow sheen called Rainbow Obsidian.
Obsidian is often confused with smoky quartz because
of a similar chemistry. It has been used by ancient
people as a cutting tool, for weapons, and for
ceremonial purposes. The stone is found in the regions
of Italy; Mexico; Scotland; Arizona, Colorado, Texas,
Utah and Idaho, USA.
