Snowflake Obsidian is a naturally occurring igneous rock recognized for its striking visual contrast. This stone is a form of volcanic glass, primarily black, which features distinct white or gray patterns that resemble snowflakes, giving the material its name. It is highly sought-after in the jewelry and mineral collecting communities.
Understanding Snowflake Obsidian’s Composition
Snowflake Obsidian is composed mainly of amorphous silica, which is volcanic glass that cooled too quickly to form a crystalline structure. The base material is chemically similar to high-silica rocks like rhyolite, giving it a glassy luster and a conchoidal fracture pattern. On the Mohs scale of hardness, the stone measures approximately 5 to 5.5, indicating it is relatively durable but softer than common quartz.
The characteristic “snowflakes” are inclusions of a mineral called cristobalite. Cristobalite is a high-temperature polymorph of quartz, sharing the same chemical formula (silicon dioxide) but having a different crystal structure. These white spherulites form through partial crystallization, or devitrification, within the glass as the lava cools.
Short-Term Exposure: Cleaning and Rinsing
Brief contact with water is safe for Snowflake Obsidian and is the recommended way to clean the stone. The glassy, silica-rich nature of the material makes it largely non-porous and resistant to immediate water damage. A quick rinse will not dull the polish or cause the stone to physically break down.
To clean the material safely, use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild, non-detergent soap. Gently use a soft cloth or brush to remove any surface dirt or oils. The most crucial step after washing is to dry the stone immediately and completely with a clean, soft cloth to prevent water spots and ensure moisture does not settle into minor surface fractures.
Long-Term Exposure: Water Damage and Elixirs
The primary concern regarding Snowflake Obsidian and water is not a quick rinse but prolonged submersion or soaking. Obsidian is a metastable material that naturally undergoes hydration or devitrification over geologic time. This slow change, where the volcanic glass turns into fine-grained mineral crystals, is accelerated by the presence of water.
While the effects are not immediate, soaking the stone for extended periods, such as days or weeks, can subtly weaken the matrix. Continuous exposure could lead to dulling of the surface polish or compromise the crystal inclusions within the softer glass. Therefore, avoid using Snowflake Obsidian for making gem elixirs or charging water. The cristobalite inclusions are a form of crystalline silica, and if microscopic particles enter the water, the safety profile for ingestion is unknown and potentially hazardous.
Best Practices for Care and Storage
To maintain the stone’s appearance, focus on avoiding conditions that can cause physical damage or accelerate breakdown. Store Snowflake Obsidian away from harder minerals, as its Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5 makes it susceptible to scratching from materials like quartz or topaz. Direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations should also be avoided, as these can stress the volcanic glass and its inclusions.
For energetic cleansing methods that do not involve water, sound or moonlight are alternatives. Placing the stone under the light of a full moon or near a singing bowl are effective, non-invasive ways to refresh the stone. If the material gets wet during cleaning, ensure it is thoroughly dried and not stored in a humid environment.