Obsidian: Meaning, Healing Properties and more

September 10, 2024

Countries of origin: Worldwide

Hardness on Mohs scale: 5-5.5

Rarity: Some types are readily available, others are rare

Zodiac Signs: Sagittarius

Birthstone Month: November

Chakras: Root

Planet: Saturn

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Obsidian meaning

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly without crystallizing. It's often jet-black but can also be found in various shades like green, brown, or even rainbow.

Obsidian has been used for centuries for tools, weapons, and spiritual purposes. Its unique properties and dark appearance have made it a popular choice for jewellery and decorative items.

What does obsidian look like?

Obsidian typically has a jet-black colour, but it can also be found in various shades, such as green, brown, or even rainbow (when it contains iridescent inclusions). It has a glassy texture and a conchoidal fracture, meaning it breaks in a curved or shell-like pattern.

What is obsidian used for?

Obsidian has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including:

Tools: Its sharp edges made it ideal for creating tools such as knives, arrowheads, and scrapers.
Weapons: Obsidian was used to make weapons like daggers and swords.
Jewellery: Obsidian is often used in jewellery, especially for rings, pendants, and beads.
Decorative objects: Obsidian is used to create various decorative objects, such as statues and sculptures.
Spiritual purposes: Obsidian is believed to have metaphysical properties and is often used in healing rituals and spiritual practices.

Cleansing and charging obsidian

All crystals should be cleansed when you first get them and then regularly after that. They should also be charged to keep them at their full power.

Two of the most common ways to cleanse crystals is with water and with sunlight.

Can obsidian get wet?

Yes, obsidian can get wet. It is a naturally occurring volcanic glass, and like other types of glass, it is not porous. Therefore, water does not soak into it.

However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperature changes or chemicals can cause obsidian to crack or break. So, while it's okay to get obsidian wet, it's best to avoid exposing it to harsh conditions.

Can obsidian go in sunlight?

Yes, obsidian can go in sunlight. It is a naturally occurring volcanic glass, and as such, it is resistant to the effects of sunlight. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperature changes can cause obsidian to crack or break. So, while it's okay to leave obsidian in sunlight, it's best to avoid exposing it to sudden or drastic temperature fluctuations.

For a more comprehensive guide check out this blog post: How to Cleanse and Charge Crystals

Obsidian healing properties

Physical healing properties

Pain relief: Some people believe that obsidian can help alleviate physical pain, especially headaches and backaches.

Emotional and mental healing properties

Stress reduction: Obsidian is thought to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety.

Metaphysical healing properties

Grounding and protection: Obsidian is often associated with grounding and protection from negative energies. It is believed to help stabilize emotions and provide a sense of security.
Truth and clarity: Obsidian is often used to uncover hidden truths and promote clarity of thought. It is believed to help individuals confront their fears and limitations.
Transformation: Obsidian is associated with transformation and personal growth. It is believed to help individuals release negative patterns and embrace positive change.

Affirmations for obsidian

Affirmations are a great tool to use alongside crystals. They can be used to set your intention and further personalise your journey of healing and growth. Firstly, decide which of the many properties of obsidian you feel is needed in your life at this current time. Next, write down your affirmation as if it has already happening, in the present tense. Remember your affirmation must be positive, for example rather than "I would like to be less confused" instead say "I think with clarity".

Here are some examples you can use:

Where do you put obsidian in your home?

Obsidian can be placed in various areas of your home to enhance its believed properties. Here are some popular locations:

Bedroom: To promote restful sleep and reduce nightmares.
Living room: To create a sense of grounding and protection.
Home office: To enhance focus, clarity, and creativity.
Meditation space: To aid in meditation and spiritual practices.
Entranceway: To ward off negative energy and invite positive vibes.

Ultimately, the best location for obsidian depends on your personal preferences and the specific properties you wish to harness. You can experiment with different placements to see what feels most beneficial for you.

What chakra is obsidian good for?

Obsidian is often associated with the root chakra.

The root chakra, located at the base of the spine, is responsible for feelings of security, stability, and groundedness. Obsidian's dark, grounding energy is believed to help balance and activate this chakra.

When the root chakra is balanced, it can promote feelings of safety, stability, and vitality.

How to use obsidian

Obsidian can be used in an area of your house or placed within your energy field.

To be within your energy field a crystal can be:

Placed near you
In your pocket, wallet, purse or bag
Worn as jewellery or an accessory

The crystal’s energy will now be working to heal, improve your life.

Another option is to meditate with obsidian. You can either place it on one of your chakras or hold it in your hands. This is especially powerful if you have a particular healing property you wish to receive.