


Golden obsidian usually has a darker base color, like black or deep brown. The exact shade can vary slightly, with some pieces being a stronger sapphire hue while others are closer to a robin's egg or even a light teal. However, obsidian actually comes in a wide range of colors.īlue obsidian tends to be fairly transparent with a distinct blue coloring. Black obsidian is usually what you find in jewelry, and it's also incredibly popular with lapidaries. When people think of obsidian, the black obsidian stone is what commonly comes to mind. When lava cools quickly and doesn't have much crystal growth as the temperature falls, it can create the glassy rock we know as obsidian. Still, their presence doesn't mean you aren't looking at a piece of obsidian.Īs for how obsidian is made, it forms from viscous magma usually. Different inclusions or impurities can alter the final color of the stone. However, it isn't always the only component. In fact, the silica is part of why obsidian has such a lovely glassy finish that reflects the light so brilliantly. When it comes to what obsidian is made of, silica plays a big role. However, it is sometimes classified as a mineraloid, as it does have many mineral-like qualities. Technically, obsidian is a kind of naturally-occurring glass, though it's usually considered to simply be an igneous rock. If you're wondering, "Is obsidian a gem, or is obsidian a mineral?" the answer is neither. Plus, it's incredibly versatile and relatively easy to work with, making it a favorite among boutique jewelry makers.īut many people ask, "Is obsidian a gem, or is it something else?" If you're curious about obsidian, here's a look at some fun obsidian facts, including whether obsidian is a gem, how it is made, and more. It has a look that's hard to find in any other gem. For many people, obsidian is a jewelry favorite.
