A Brief History of Obsidian in Jewelry-Making
Have you ever wondered what that beautiful black stone is in that stunning piece of jewelry you’ve been admiring? It’s called obsidian, and it has a long and fascinating history in the world of jewelry.
What is Obsidian?
Obsidian is a type of natural glass that is formed when hot lava cools very quickly. It has a smooth, glossy surface and is usually black in color, although it can also be brown, green, or even red. Obsidian is found all over the world, but it is especially abundant in volcanic regions.
The History of Obsidian in Jewelry-Making
The ancient people of Mesoamerica (present-day Mexico and Central America) were some of the first to use obsidian for jewelry. They carved it into beads, pendants, and other ornamental objects. The Aztecs, in particular, used obsidian extensively in their ritualistic ceremonies.
Obsidian was popular in ancient Egypt. It was used to make scarabs, which were carved with images of gods and goddesses and then worn as amulets.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, obsidian became fashionable in Europe. It was used to create cameos, intaglios, and other delicate jewelry.
Obsidian was also popular in ancient Greece and Rome. It was used to make beads, amulets, and other jewelry. The Romans believed that obsidian had special protective powers and used it to ward off evil spirits.
In the Middle Ages, obsidian was believed to have magical properties and was used in various ceremonies. It was also thought to be effective in treating a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, and acne.
Obsidian continued to be popular in jewelry-making throughout the centuries. In the Victorian era, it was often used in mourning jewelry.
Today, obsidian is still used in a variety of jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings. It is especially popular in holistic and wire designs.
How it is Used in Jewelry
Today obsidian is a popular choice for jewelry because it is beautiful and unique. It is also said to have healing properties and is considered to be a semiprecious stone.
Some people believe that obsidian can help relieve stress, ease anxiety, and promote relaxation. It is also said to boost self-esteem and confidence.
Obsidian is also popular in carving and can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is often used in pendants, beads, and other ornamental objects.
What Are The Different Types of Obsidian?
There are three main types of obsidian: black obsidian, mahogany obsidian, and snowflake obsidian.
Black Obsidian- Black obsidian is the most common type of obsidian. It is typically jet black in color with a glassy or shiny surface.
Mahogany Obsidian- Mahogany obsidian is brown or red in color and has a lower gloss than black obsidian.
Snowflake Obsidian- Snowflake obsidian is black with white “snowflakes” throughout.
Care and Cleaning of Obsidian Jewelry
Obsidian is a relatively soft stone and can be easily scratched or chipped. It is also sensitive to heat and chemicals.
To clean obsidian jewelry, simply wipe it with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners.
When not in use, store obsidian jewelry in a soft pouch or box. Avoid storing it next to other pieces of jewelry as it can scratch them.
If you’re looking for a piece of jewelry that is both stylish and has special meaning, then obsidian is a great choice.
We use obsidian in our designs because of its beauty and uniqueness. This semiprecious stone makes great accents to our Aquaria art. To have your own piece of this stunning jewelry, check out our website or contact us for custom design options.
