Obsidian

About

Looking for a specific obsidian piece? Large spheres, mirrors, or custom sizes. Submit a sourcing request → Obsidian is not a crystal. That distinction matters. It is volcanic glass — formed when felsic lava cools so rapidly that atoms cannot arrange themselves into a crystalline lattice. The result is an amorphous solid with no repeating internal structure, a conchoidal fracture pattern that produces naturally sharp edges, and a surface that ranges from pure matte black to a vitreous luster capable of near-mirror reflection. Black obsidian polished to a sphere — volcanic glass taking a near-mirror finish — shop this piece The material has been used as a cutting tool, obsidian mirror, and decorative object for thousands of years across Mesoamerica, the Mediterranean, and the Pacific. Its visual weight is significant: black obsidian has a density and opacity that reads as architectural in interior settings, holding its own against stone, concrete, and dark-stained wood. Mahogany obsidian and rainbow obsidian — varieties with iridescent inclusions caused by trapped gas bubbles or magnetite nanoparticles — introduce surface complexity while retaining that fundamental darkness. How to Choose Obsidian Variety. Black obsidian is the most common and versatile — it works in nearly any display context. Rainbow obsidian reveals hidden spectral bands when polished and lit from the right angle, making it a more interactive display piece. Mahogany obsidian features warm brown swirls from iron oxide inclusions and pairs naturally with earth-toned decor. Form. Spheres showcase obsidian's mirror-polish potential from every angle. Freeforms and slabs make striking architectural accents on shelves and desks. Raw pieces display the characteristic conchoidal fracture that distinguishes obsidian from any crystalline mineral. Surface quality. On polished pieces, look for an even, deep reflection free of pitting or dull patches. On raw pieces, clean fracture surfaces with good vitreous lu