Stone guide · Obsidian
Volcanic glass, black and mirror-smooth. Obsidian was one of the first materials people traded across the Aegean Sea, and it still looks sharp today.
What it is
Obsidian forms when lava cools so fast that crystals have no time to grow. The result is natural glass with a smooth, glossy surface. When it breaks it leaves very sharp edges, which is why early people used it for blades and tools. In jewelry the beads are polished and rounded, so there is nothing sharp left to worry about.
An Aegean story
On the Greek island of Milos, obsidian was quarried and carried by boat to other islands and the mainland thousands of years ago. It is one of the earliest signs of long-distance sea trade in the Aegean. We like that a stone with that history sits on a wrist made in Rhodes. Some traditions also see obsidian as a protective stone. That is symbolism, not a medical claim.
Obsidian in our jewelry
Knights Obsidian & Onyx · 8mmShopPhaistos Disc · 6mmShop
Long Cross Necklace · 10mmShop
Rosary Necklace · 6mmShop
Matte or polished
- Polished: glassy, deep black, with a mirror shine in the light.
- Matte: soft and velvety, easier to pair with casual clothes.
- Mixed with onyx: two blacks with different surfaces.
Caring for obsidian
- It is glass, so a hard knock can chip or crack it. Take it off for sport and heavy work.
- Wipe with a soft damp cloth, then dry.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Store it apart from harder stones.
Questions people ask
Is obsidian a real gemstone?
It is natural volcanic glass, not a crystal. It is widely used in jewelry.
Is obsidian fragile?
It is glass, so it can chip with a hard knock. Everyday wear is fine with some care.
Is obsidian always black?
No. It can be brown, green or have patterns such as snowflake. Our pieces use black obsidian.
Is obsidian for men or women?
Both. It looks strong in thick beads and refined in slim ones.