Obsidian Meanings

Psychic protection, grounding, cleansing of negativity, spirit communication

Chakras: Base

Element: Earth

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Number: 1

Obsidian Crystal Healing Properties

Black Obsidian’s energy is thought to create a protective shield that helps one remain centred when faced with negativity. It is believed to assist in recognising where one is holding negativity and helps uncover unconscious thoughts and patterns that inhibit one’s spiritual and personal growth.

History and Uses

Black Obsidian derives its name from an ancient Roman explorer called Obsius who was given a black glass sphere from a volcano by an Ethiopian woman called Xenia. It is also called the “wizard stone” because it has been used since ancient times in many magical practices. Polished Obsidian mirrors were used for scrying and Nostradamus is reputed to have used a Black Obsidian sphere for scrying.

It is an opaque volcanic glass that can be black, brown grey or green. The translucent variety from Arizona is referred to as Apache Tears.

Black Obsidian has been used since Paleolithic times for making tools and weapons because it holds a sharp edge. It has even been used as the mythical “dragon glass” in today’s HBO series Game of Thrones.

Geological Description

Obsidian is a glassy, silica-rich rock formed from lava with a hardness of 5 to 5.5. It is an amorphous stone meaning that its structure contains no regular geometric pattern. Obsidian is found in South America, Japan, Mexico, Afghanistan, and parts of the United States.

Affirmation

I clear and transform negative energy and patterns.