What is snowflake obsidian?

Snowflake obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that is distinguished by its black base color interspersed with white or grayish feathery patterns resembling snowflakes. These patterns are caused by the presence of small, radially clustered inclusions of the mineral cristobalite, a form of quartz that forms as the lava cools. Here are some key points about snowflake obsidian:

1. Formation: Snowflake obsidian is formed from rapidly cooling rhyolitic lava. This quick cooling prevents the formation of a crystalline structure, resulting in a natural glass. The distinctive "snowflake" patterns emerge when the lava partially crystallizes.

2. Locations: It is commonly found in regions with volcanic activity. Notable locations include the United States (particularly in areas like Utah and New Mexico), as well as parts of Mexico, Iceland, and Italy.

3. Appearance and Properties: Snowflake obsidian is usually black with contrasting white or gray splotches. It has a glassy luster and conchoidal fracture, meaning it breaks with a curved surface, similar to broken glass. It typically rates between 5 and 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale.

4. Uses: This stone is often used in jewelry, ornamental objects, and carvings due to its distinctive appearance. Historically, like other forms of obsidian, it was used for tools and weapons due to its sharp edges when fractured.

5. Metaphysical Properties: In metaphysical circles, snowflake obsidian is believed to have protective and grounding properties. It's thought to help balance mind, body, and spirit, and is sometimes used in meditation to promote inner reflection and transformation.

6. Care and Maintenance: Being a type of glass, snowflake obsidian can be brittle and may chip or scratch easily. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.

7. Identification: Genuine snowflake obsidian can be identified by its unique patterns, glassy luster, and overall weight, as glass-based materials can feel slightly heavier than those with a crystalline structure.

When selecting snowflake obsidian for any application, whether jewelry or metaphysical practice, it’s important to source it from reputable suppliers to ensure authenticity.