How Much Is Obsidian Worth? Types, Uses & Pricing Insights

Obsidian is a unique material that originates from high-altitude lava flows. Its glassy texture and aesthetic banding are highly prized. Prices range from $5 per pound of basic raw material up to $1000 per ounce of investment-grade finished carvings.

It is a volcanic glass with a unique appearance, has many uses, and costs between $5 and $30 per pound.

This article will explore the value of obsidian and examine its different types. We'll also look at its use as jewelry, tools, and art.

Key Takeaways

1. Obsidian, a volcanic glass made from natural volcanic glass, is used to make tools and jewelry.

2. Obsidian does not trade on the open market like gold and silver.

3. Obsidian is priced according to its size, color, and quality.

4. Obsidian deposits are so diverse that it can be hard to know the price, but black obsidian in general is priced by its weight and its quality.

5. Professional appraisers would need to price some rarer types of obsidian such as fire-obsidian.

What is Obsidian?

Obsidian is a glassy, smooth rock that forms by volcanism. Molten lava cools quickly, resulting in a smooth and glassy rock. Obsidian is usually black but can be found in a variety of colors, including brown, green, blue, and translucent shades.

It is primarily silica, with trace amounts of other minerals. The key characteristics are:

• Jet black or dark colors
• When fractured, the glass has a smooth texture.
• Extreme Hardness and Resistance to Scratching
• Finely flaked material can form sharp edges
• The natural purity of the wood makes it easy for you to polish

Obsidian, with its sharp edges, has been used for centuries to make cutting tools, arrowheads, and surgical blades.

Does Obsidian Trade as a Commodity?

Obsidian, like other natural stones, is usually sold in its raw form. Price can vary depending on the type of obsidian and demand.

It is not traded in the same manner as agricultural products or precious metals. Because there is no market for obsidian its value is less well-established than other raw materials like gold, silver, or oil.

Obsidian raw, that is obsidian which has not yet been crafted into an item, is usually priced by weight similar to precious metals like gold and silver.

How Much is Obsidian Worth?

The answer to the question "How much does obsidian cost?" is a complex one. When asking the question "How much is obsidian worth? The value of an obsidian piece depends on its size, quality, and craftsmanship. 

Raw obsidian, compared to other gems, is generally relatively affordable. Prices start as low as a few dollars for small uncut pieces.

When obsidian jewelry is made, like obsidian pendants or bracelets, prices can rise significantly. The price of high-quality jewelry made from obsidian can range anywhere between $20 and several hundred dollars depending on its design, rarity, and if it's paired with precious metals or gemstones.

Obsidian jewelry that is custom-made or artisan-crafted can be even more expensive.

Obsidian's value also depends on its type. Black obsidian for example is less valuable and more common, whereas rarer varieties such as gold sheen or rainbow obsidian are more expensive due to their unique look and limited availability.

This section will discuss the various price points of obsidian. The price of obsidian is largely determined by the size, color, and purity of the ore. It can also be affected by the location of the market.

How Much is 1 gram of obsidian worth?

Obsidian can be sold by weight, such as a gram, but also by pound, carat, or kilogram.

There is no standard price for obsidian. Unpolished, common obsidian can be purchased for as little as $5 per kilogram. For rarer or more polished obsidian, the value can reach $100.

Obsidian usually comes in kilograms. You can convert the price to other measurements using the following conversion:

Rare obsidian types, like blue, green, or fire, are often more expensive. Professional appraisers will usually evaluate these varieties due to their unique characteristics and rarity.

How much is raw obsidian worth?

Raw obsidian's value depends on many factors including its size, the purity of the specimen, and the color. The majority of obsidian ore is only worth $0.005 per kilogram.

Obsidian Varieties Listed by Value

Obsidian is a natural stone that occurs in many different regional variations. Each variety has its own distinctive visual characteristics, which can have a significant impact on perceived value and pricing.

Snowflake Obsidian Price per Gram = $1.00 to $5.00

• Commonly, large sizes are available
• Most commonly found in cheap jewelry
• The most common stones used are tumbled stones and cabochons
• The spheres, pyramids, and carvings

Mahogany Obsidian Price per Gram = $1.00 to $5.00

• All sizes of Common
• Most commonly found in cheap jewelry
• The most common stones used are tumbled stones and cabochons
• The spheres, pyramids, and carvings

Sheen Obsidian Price per Gram = $1.00 to $5.00

• All sizes of Common
• Most commonly found in cheap jewelry
• The most common stones used are tumbled stones and cabochons
• The spheres, pyramids, and carvings

Apache Tears price per gram = $1.00 - $4.00

• There are a few known deposits
• Rock and mineral shows are a common place to find this type of specimen.
• Nodules in the matrix, raw nodules, and tumbled

Rainbow Obsidian is available from $1 to $5

• All sizes of Common
• Most commonly found in cheap jewelry
• The most common stones used are tumbled stones and cabochons
• The spheres, pyramids, and carvings

How Much Is Black Obsidian Worth?

Black obsidian, the most common type of obsidian ore is usually cheaper than rarer obsidian deposits. According to the description above, black obsidian has a value of $0.005 per kilogram.

A rarer type, like rainbow obsidian and fire obsidian, can fetch a significantly higher price because of its unique visual characteristics. It is best to consult a professional for an accurate appraisal in such cases.

Uses for Obsidian Crystal

Obsidian has been used primarily as a weapon and tool throughout history. Ancient civilizations used cutting tools made from obsidian for everyday tasks and hunting because of their sharpness. Some surgeons still use obsidian blades today for certain procedures because it is sharper than steel scalpels.

Obsidian is used in decorative art and jewelry, as well as for tools. The smooth, glossy texture of obsidian makes it ideal for making beautiful sculptures, pendants, and beads. The quality and craftsmanship of obsidian products determine their value.

Obsidian is used in many different fields.

Archaeology & Paleontology

• Prehistoric societies used cutting tools as a way to cut food.
• Use as an artifact to date archaeological sites.

Crystal Healing and Spiritual Practices

• Believed to be protective.
• Meditation and energy work often use this oil.

Industrial Uses

• The sharpness of the blades makes it a good choice for surgical scalpels
• Use in high-precision manufacturing processes

Obsidian is a versatile stone that has unique properties. It can be used for scientific research, industrial applications, and aesthetic purposes.

The Mystical Value of Obsidian

Obsidian is a valuable stone, but it also has a spiritual significance. It's often called a "psychic cleaner" because it can cleanse one's aura from negative influences. Obsidian is often worn as jewelry, or kept nearby to protect against psychic or emotional attacks.

Obsidian, in addition to being protective, is also believed to encourage self-reflection. Obsidian necklaces and bracelets can help people become more aware of their emotions. They may also be better equipped to deal with past traumas.

Is Obsidian Valuable and Worth Anything?

Obsidian is a valuable material.

Various civilizations have valued obsidian for centuries due to its unique qualities. It is a volcanic glass that is naturally formed. The benefits of the black obsidian band can include grounding and protection from negative energy.

Obsidian, a stone that is used for jewelry and decorative purposes, is still highly prized today. Jewelry made from obsidian can vary in value depending on its type.

Obsidian is a material that has a lot of value. Its natural beauty makes it incredibly popular for jewelry. It is also highly valued for its meaning and benefits.

Obsidian Bracelets

Obsidian bracelets are often used for crystal healing. They absorb negative energy and promote emotional balance, mental clarity, and mental clarity. 

Black obsidian is known for having a deep, glossy finish, and intense energy. It is a grounding crystal that helps people stay connected to the earth and gives them a feeling of protection. The price of an obsidian bracelet can vary depending on its quality, design, and craftsmanship.

The Appeal of Obsidian Jewelry

Obsidian Jewelry is popular not only for its beautiful appearance but also because of its cultural and historical significance. Obsidian was used by ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs or Mayans to make tools, weapons, and intricate carvings.

Obsidian jewelry is available in many forms today, such as necklaces, rings, and earrings. This allows individuals to wear the stone every day.

The versatility of obsidian jewelry is one of the main reasons why people love it. The sleek, black sheen of the stone makes it easy to match with any outfit. Many wear obsidian jewelry beyond fashion because of its healing properties.

It is believed that it protects against negativity and increases inner strength.

FAQs

What factors determine the value of obsidian?
Quality, size, color, and purity are the main factors. Rarer colors, such as green, rainbow, and blue, are usually more expensive.

What is the price of obsidian in the U.S.A.?
Black obsidian is generally priced at $5 per kilogram or $0.005 per gram in the United States. Costs of exotic varieties may be higher, depending on their rarity and features.

What is the historical significance of Obsidian stone in different cultures?

Obsidian stone has been a significant part of history in many cultures because of its symbolism and utility. Ancient civilizations used it to make tools and attributed spiritual properties like protection and healing.

Does wearing obsidian stones affect the wearer's health or well-being?

There is no scientific evidence that obsidian stones can affect health or well-being. In some cultures, however, the stones are thought to possess metaphysical properties that can affect a wearer's spiritual and emotional state.

How sustainable is Obsidian mining in terms of environmental impact?

While less intensive than other types of mining, obsidian mining still poses environmental challenges. They include soil erosion and habitat destruction, which require careful management to ensure sustainable practices.

Is Obsidian Stone Used for anything else besides Jewelry?

Obsidian stone is used in more than just jewelry. It can be used to make tools in archaeology due to its sharpness. In some medical procedures, it is used as a scalpel knife because of its fine edge.

Conclusion

Remember that the true value of obsidian goes far beyond its monetary value. It is a catalyst for growth and well-being and can be a strong grounding force.

The quality of obsidian is greatly influenced by factors like formation, color variations, and cutting techniques.

It is important to purchase from a trusted seller in order to ensure authenticity.