History of Obsidian stone

Throughout the prehistoric period, obsidian stone was used to craft tools and weapons. This igneous rock has existed for over 36,000 years. Still exploited by some Indian peoples, Obsidian is a stone that served the first peoples in their development. Though it can be found in various parts of the world, obsidian stone is considered the stone of Mexico. This is because the majority of the extraction was carried out there for millennia. Since its existence, obsidian stone has been located primarily on the Asian, African and European continents. However, the first deposits date back to 21,000 years before Christ and are located in the United States and Mexico.

1200 years before Christ, obsidian stone was used by the Olmec of Central America for crafting weapons. Obsidian was also used in medicine to fight against viruses, bacteria and inflammations, but also for cranial surgery. It was used extensively in trade, which strongly contributed to the development of the Aztec Empire and its expansion to El Salvador and Nicaragua. Today, obsidian stone is still used by litho therapists for its properties but it is also used in the manufacturing of Obsidian necklaces and bracelets. In addition to its virtues, Obsidian has become an elegant jewel to wear.

Origin and Composition of Obsidian Stone

Obsidian stone was named after ‘Obsius’, an ancient Roman explorer who discovered it in Ethiopia. Obsidian is a volcanic stone and can occur in black, red, grey or even blackish-green varieties. This stone is extremely rich in silica. It can be both translucent but also transparent, with a vitreous luster and a unique texture.

Characterised by a mixture of sharp and smooth fractures, obsidian stone is deemed conchoidal. It has a rather high hardness as it varies between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, which can allow it to scratch crystals such as glass, for example. Known for its uniqueness and abundance around volcanoes, Obsidian stone can be found in Armenia, the United States, Japan, Iceland, Mexico and Peru.

Lithotherapeutic Properties of Obsidian Stone

In litho therapy, obsidian stone is to be used with caution due to its powerful properties. Obsidian is a protective stone of powerful strength that acts very quickly. Well suited for vulnerable people, it helps protect against negative energies. Wearing an obsidian pendant, for example, can grant the wearer a protective shield.

Psychologically, obsidian stone offers substantial energy which grants the wearer inner peace and calming of the soul. Obsidian clears the mind by reducing confusion, and opening the intellect and the third eye. Obsidian stone is also well known for its bonds to the celestial world. Many use obsidian spheres to allow for communication with the parallel world.

Some therapists place Obsidian stone in their hands and at the level of the root chakra. It allows them to protect their mind from instability. Obsidian also mitigates many pains, such as cramps or other joint pains. It also helps to ward off the surrounding negative energies. If you place obsidian near your bed at night, it can dissipate all mental tensions.