Obsidian
Also known as: Volcanic Glass, Stone of Truth, Scrying Stone, Black Mirror
About Obsidian
Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when lava rich in silica cools rapidly without crystallising. Its smooth, glossy black surface has been used for thousands of years for scrying mirrors, arrowheads, and surgical blades due to its incredibly sharp edges. Major sources include Mexico, Japan, Iceland, and parts of the USA. In Mesoamerican cultures, obsidian mirrors were used by priests and shamans for divination and spiritual communication. In Hindu tradition, obsidian is associated with Saturn's protective energy and is used to ward off the evil eye and malefic influences. At Reiki Heal, obsidian is our primary stone for deep shadow work, emotional excavation, and psychic protection. It cuts through deception, illusion, and self-deception with unflinching honesty, revealing the truth that lies beneath the surface. Obsidian connects powerfully with the Root chakra, providing intense grounding and a protective shield against psychic attack and negative vibrations.
Healing Benefits
Provides intense psychic protection and shields against negative energy and attacks.
Facilitates deep shadow work by revealing hidden truths and unconscious patterns.
Grounds scattered energy and connects you firmly to the earth's stabilising force.
Absorbs and neutralises environmental pollution and electromagnetic radiation.
Enhances scrying, divination, and psychic vision during spiritual practice.
Releases emotional blockages, trauma, and deeply held negative beliefs naturally.
Promotes clarity of mind and sharpens perception in complex situations.
Supports physical healing of the digestive system and eliminates toxins from the body.
Chakra Associations
Zodiac Connections
Crystal Care
Obsidian can be cleansed by smudging with sage, palo santo, or incense. You can also place it on a bed of dry sea salt overnight. Brief rinsing under cool running water is acceptable, but avoid prolonged water exposure. Obsidian absorbs negative energy rapidly, so cleanse it regularly if you use it for protection or shadow work.
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Pairs Well With
Frequently Asked Questions
Obsidian is used for psychic protection, shadow work, grounding, and scrying. It shields against negative energy, reveals hidden truths, absorbs environmental pollution, and provides intense grounding. It is one of the most powerful protection stones available.
Obsidian is technically a natural volcanic glass, not a crystalline mineral, as it forms from rapidly cooled lava. However, in crystal healing, it is treated and valued like a crystal for its powerful energetic properties, particularly for protection and grounding.
Obsidian can be worn daily, but it is softer than many crystals (5 on the Mohs scale) so handle it carefully. It is best worn as a pendant, earrings, or in a protective setting. Avoid exposing it to harsh impacts, chemicals, or extreme temperature changes.
Black obsidian is volcanic glass with a smooth, glossy surface, while black tourmaline is a crystalline mineral with a striated texture. Obsidian is better for deep shadow work and scrying, while black tourmaline excels at EMF protection and general energy shielding.