Obsidian has been used throughout history, from jewelry to weapons to tools. But it is so much more than just a pretty rock. Obsidian has properties that can be harnessed to bring healing, protection, and spiritual strength.
In this guide, we will cover all there is to know about obsidian: what it means, what its healing properties are, how to use it for spiritual purposes, and more. We will also explore the various types of obsidian and how they can each be used for different things.
The Meaning and History of Obsidian
Obsidian is a natural glass formed by the rapid cooling of molten lava. It's found worldwide and dates back to prehistoric times when it was used for weapons and tools. Historical records also point to its being used as a form of divination and protection in many ancient cultures.
Its associations with the underworld have given it power as an amulet and symbol of protection against evil forces.
A key feature of obsidian is its glass-like, hard black surface that reflects an almost wet-like sheen when polished. Those characteristics have made it popular in jewelry and decorative pieces; however, it can also be worked into tool form due to its high-temperature tolerance and sharpness.
Its color symbolizes grounding, which makes it powerful for clearing away negative energies that infiltrate your life.
The Healing Properties of Obsidian
Obsidian is a powerful stone that can help you to exterminate negative energies from your life and protect you from the harmful intentions of other people.
In some cultures, Obsidian is believed to hold the ability to protect you from spiritual and physical harm, making it a popular choice for dealing with emotional wounds or balancing the energies of your body.
The powers of Obsidian come from its complex chemical makeup. It contains a range of elements, including:
- Iron ore
- Magnesium oxide
- Silicon dioxide
These materials work together to create a firm grounding effect that protects you from danger and strengthens your spirit.
Additionally, it has been said that Obsidian encourages healing on all levels, allowing you to find emotional and physical balance. This can be achieved through meditation with the stone or carrying it in your pocket throughout the day.
How to Use Obsidian for Healing and Energy
These healing properties of obsidian make it a powerful tool on your spiritual journey. Here are some ways to use obsidian for healing:
Crystals
Using an obsidian crystal can be incredibly helpful in emotional distress or feeling out of balance. The crystal frequencies can help release blockages and negative energy and open new pathways within your core Being.
Simply hold the crystal in one hand and close your eyes, allowing the vibrations from the stone to move through you, clearing away any stagnant energy or emotions.
Jewelry
Wearing jewelry made from obsidian has many benefits, such as providing enhanced protection from energies that may push against you.
Rings and necklaces featuring this gemstone will provide strength during difficult moments and aid in grounding you when overwhelmed.
For added magical properties, pieces with silver accents or etchings will amplify the magical workings of this gemstone.
Meditation
Meditating with an obsidian stone is a great way to connect more deeply with your core Being while clearing away any blocks within yourself.
Place an obsidian stone on one hand while focusing on deep breaths; let the energy flow through you as it helps clear any unwanted energies hindering growth or inner peace.
Obsidian and the Root Chakra
Obsidian is also associated with the Root Chakra, the energy center at the spine's base. This powerful crystal works to unify the mind and body and instill a sense of safety and security.
When used with intention, Obsidian can help to clear away any blockages or emotional buildup in your thoughts that may be preventing you from connecting to your power source.
The Root Chakra is associated with grounding, stability, and security. When this chakra is open and balanced, you will experience greater vitality, a sense of calmness, increased focus, and mental clarity - all qualities that Obsidian can help to bring out.
Obsidian's deep connection to the root chakra makes it an ideal healing crystal for those looking to gain an awareness of their physical energy and emotions while being in tune with their spiritual essence.
Different Types of Obsidian and Their Meanings
The type of obsidian can be identified by its color, from black and gray to green, red, and transparent. Each type has its own meaning and healing properties.
Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
Snowflake Obsidian
Snowflake obsidian is an opaque black glass dotted with white patches that resemble snowflakes. This type of obsidian is known for its healing properties and for dispelling fear and trauma while promoting courage and strength.
Gold Sheen Obsidian
Gold Sheen Obsidian is black with a reflective golden sheen on the surface. This stone helps promote success in business-related matters and assists with emotional balance.
It also has vital grounding energy to help you reconnect with the Earth's energy when feeling ungrounded or overwhelmed.
Mahogany Obsidian
Mahogany Obsidian is a reddish-brown stone associated with protection. It helps block negative energy directed at you from outside sources while providing emotional stability and grounding.
Rainbow Obsidian
Rainbow Obsidian is a beautiful semi-translucent stone featuring a wide range of colors - purples, blues, greens, and even browns - all blending to create a rainbow-like effect on the stone's surface.
This type of obsidian encourages positive emotions such as joy, appreciation for life's blessings, empathy towards others, and connection with nature.
How to Care for Them Obsidian Crystals
Obsidian crystals are some of the most durable and hardy crystals you can find. But they require some extra attention to ensure they stay in pristine condition, both physically and energetically.
Cleanse Regularly
Due to their porous nature, obsidian crystals quickly absorb negative energy. Cleaning your crystal regularly is wise to keep it free from stagnant or toxic energies.
You can do this using various methods, such as sound vibrations (e.g. chanting or bells), smudging with sage, running it under lukewarm water, or simply leaving them in direct sunlight for a few hours.
Avoid Unexpected Impacts
To avoid physical damage to your crystal, handle it carefully and avoid sharp jolts against other objects, which could cause chipping or otherwise damage the stone's integrity.
Don't Expose To Water For Too Long
Though water is a natural cleanser for many crystals, too much moisture can harm obsidians. If exposed to water for too long, the porous holes of obsidian can fill up with water, resulting in the crystal disintegrating over time.
Table of Properties
Here's a table detailing the geological properties of Obsidian:
Conclusion
In summary, a piece of obsidian is the perfect tool to help you ground yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of life. People worldwide have used its striking black color and protective properties for centuries, and it is still used today.
Whether you use obsidian to enhance your spiritual practice or as a symbol of strength and protection, it is a powerful and unique crystal.
