PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- TYPE OF ROCKFelsic, volcanic, igneous
- MAIN MINERALS Glass
- ACCESSORIES MINERALS Hematite, feldspar
- COLOR Black, brown, red
- TEXTURE Amorphous
MINERALOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The rainbow obsidian is a variety of obsidian that presents iridescent and colored chromatic bands, caused by the inclusions of nanoparticles of magnetite.
The obsidian is not considered a mineral, since it is a natural glass of volcanic origin that was formed by the rapid cooling of magmas rich in silicic acid. It is an igneous rock with a high silica content and a conchoidal fracture.
The name of obsidian comes from the Latin "lapis obsianus", "obsidian stone", a name that derives from Obsius, a Roman man, supposedly known explorer or naturalist , to which Pliny (1st century AD) refers.
In ancient times, obsidian was highly valued thanks to its conchoidal fracture, which allows the creation of very sharp points and cutting tools. It was also used as an amulet and as ornamentation. Mesoamerican cultures polished obsidian to make mirrors, since it has a vitreous and reflective shine. Currently obsidian is used in the manufacture of jewelry and ornamentation and in the manufacture of cutting blades for surgery.
Deposits: Mexico and the United States.
THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES
The rainbow obsidian is considered a powerful stone for personal growth. As a black stone it is used for protection, cleansing and purification. It is related to the 1st chakra, with mother earth, and represents the integration of light in the earthly world, in a conscious and dynamic way. It is said that rainbow obsidian acts more gently than black obsidian and helps release codependency.
The obsidian is known for its strength and its healing properties. Symbolically it represents the "mirror" to which the totality of being is reflected, with its shadow and with its light. One of its characteristics is to directly show those limiting and shadowed aspects of oneself, in order to give them the opportunity to heal, release or integrate them. For this purpose, it can bring to light blockages, traumas and memories of the past. It is recommended to be aware of its properties and its mobilizing capacity before using it.
