Obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass, forms when lava cools rapidly, giving it a smooth, often dark, glassy appearance. Historically used for tools and weapons due to its sharp edges, its unique aesthetic makes it popular today, with market value influenced by several factors.
Factors Affecting Obsidian’s Value
Several characteristics influence obsidian’s market value. Rarity plays a significant role; common black obsidian is more accessible and affordable than rarer varieties like rainbow, fire, or sheen obsidian, which are sought after by collectors and jewelers due to their unique optical properties.
Quality and purity impact price. Specimens with minimal inclusions, fractures, and a vibrant, consistent color or sheen command higher prices, especially with a fine polish.
Size and weight contribute to cost; larger specimens are more valuable due to their rarity and collection challenges. Form and processing also add value, as raw chunks are less expensive than tumbled stones, polished spheres, or intricately carved figures, with craftsmanship and labor increasing price.
The origin of obsidian also influences its value. Specific geological sources, such as Mexico for high-quality rainbow and gold sheen obsidian, enhance its collectible appeal. Market demand and trends also affect pricing, as obsidian’s popularity for collecting, jewelry, or spiritual practices causes fluctuations.
Obsidian Prices by Type and Use
Obsidian prices vary by form, type, and intended use, reflecting processing and inherent qualities. Raw, unworked obsidian chunks, particularly common black varieties, typically cost around $0.005 per gram or $5 per kilogram, often up to $8 per pound for basic forms. Raw obsidian with rare colors or distinctive patterns can fetch higher prices, ranging from $10 to $50 per pound.
Tumbled obsidian stones, polished for a smooth finish, range from $1 to $10 per stone or around $28 per pound for black obsidian. Snowflake obsidian tumbled stones are often priced between $0.50 and $3.74 per piece, while mahogany obsidian tumbled stones can be about $0.75 per stone or $20.99 per pound.
Polished obsidian spheres vary widely in price based on size and type. Standard black obsidian spheres (3-5 cm diameter) may cost $15 to $60, with larger ones (2.5-3 inches) ranging from $39.95 to $54.95, and 4-inch spheres reaching up to $149.95.
Snowflake obsidian spheres can be found from $4.50 for a 20mm marble up to $35.00 for a 50mm sphere. A 2.25-inch sheen obsidian sphere might cost $42.95.
Carved obsidian items, such as figurines or decorative pieces, start from $20 for small carvings. Large, complex, or museum-quality sculptures can reach hundreds or thousands of dollars, reflecting intricate detail.
In jewelry, obsidian prices vary significantly. Standard obsidian bracelets with 8-12mm beads often range from $7 to $45, and pendants might cost $12 to $75.
Jewelry-grade obsidian, especially rare varieties like rainbow or gold sheen, can be priced from $4 to $20 per carat. Overall prices increase substantially when set in precious metals due to added craftsmanship.
Buying Obsidian and What to Look For
Obsidian is widely available through various channels, including online retailers like Etsy and Amazon, specialized crystal and mineral shops, local rock and gem shows, and metaphysical stores. Evaluating obsidian quality involves several considerations. Genuine obsidian has a smooth, glassy texture and a deep, rich shine.
As natural volcanic glass, it can contain small, barely visible gas bubbles or minor impurities; these are natural characteristics. When light shines through pure black obsidian, it may reveal subtle dark yellow or green hues, distinguishing it from artificial glass, which may show blue or unnatural colors.
A simple scratch test with a steel object (knife or nail) can determine authenticity. Genuine obsidian, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, can be scratched by steel of similar hardness.
Conversely, completely transparent stones or those with numerous large, obvious bubbles may indicate they are man-made glass rather than natural obsidian. Compare prices from different vendors to ensure a reasonable price.