The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Obsidian
The Power of Stones: Crystals and Gemstones

ORIGINS

Obsidian, also called volcanic glass, is molten lava that cooled so rapidly it had no time to crystallize. It has an opaque, shiny surface and is typically black but can also be brown, blue, green, red-black, silver, rainbow, or “gold sheen” if minerals or other inclusions are present. Other types of obsidian include Apache tears and snowflake obsidian. Obsidian is found worldwide wherever there is volcanic activity.

HISTORY/LORE

Because of its smooth, curved surface and sharp edges, obsidian has been used to make tools and weapons, especially arrowheads, for thousands of years. It is less common in jewelry because it is not that hard (5 on the Mohs scale) and is easily scratched. Apache tear obsidian gets its name from legend: The U.S. cavalry ambushed a group of Native Americans of the Apache tribe who were camped on a mountain. Three-quarters of the Apaches were killed within minutes, and those who remained, realizing they were outnumbered, chose to leap to their deaths rather than die at the hands of the white men. Their loved ones wept when they discovered their bodies at the base of the mountain, and black stones formed where their tears fell. The legend says that anyone who holds an Apache tear never needs to cry again, because the loved ones of those lost in the fight with the U.S. cavalry have already cried enough tears for all mourners.

USES

Healing Uses: Obsidian detoxifies the body, aids digestion, and dissolves blockages wherever they occur. It also alleviates the pain of arthritis, joint problems, cramps, and injuries. Apache tear obsidian assists with vitamin absorption. Snowflake obsidian improves circulation.

Magical Uses: Obsidian is a powerful, cathartic stone. It brings tamped-down negative emotions and unpleasant truths to the surface so they can be dealt with and released. This stone also facilitates past-life healing. A large piece of obsidian can be used to soak up environmental pollution. Obsidian placed by the bed or under the pillow draws out stress and tension, but once surfaced, the causes of these issues must be resolved. Apache tear or snowflake obsidian works best for this, and stones should be cleansed under running water after use.

Feng Shui Uses: Place obsidian in the northern area of a home or room for assistance with personal journeys. Place it in the Health/Well-Being sector for grounding and protection. Because obsidian draws in negative energy, it should be cleansed regularly and should not be placed anywhere where it will be forgotten or neglected.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Obsidian helps you to face your inner darkness and integrate it into your life rather than burying it. Black obsidian balls are powerful for meditation and scrying, but they should be used by only those who can consciously process what they see and use the information for good. Place obsidian on the navel to ground spiritual energy in the body. Place it on the third eye to tackle mental barriers.