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.

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 examine its application in jewelry, tools, and artistic creations.

Key Takeaways

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

2. Unlike gold or silver, people do not trade obsidian on the open market.

3. The price of obsidian varies based on its dimensions, hue, and grade.

4. The many types of obsidian make pricing tricky. However, sellers usually price black obsidian based on its weight and 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 usually appears black, but people can also find it in many colors. These consist of brown, green, blue, and transparent hues.

Primarily silica, with trace amounts of other minerals, is present. 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?

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

People do not trade it in the same manner as agricultural products or precious metals. Obsidian lacks a marketplace. This makes its value less clear than other materials like gold, silver, or oil.

Sellers usually price raw obsidian, which has not yet become an item, by weight. This resembles how markets price 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. Inquiring about the worth of obsidian might also seem complex to you. Its dimensions, quality, and the craftsmanship involved in its creation influence its worth. 

Raw obsidian, compared to other gems, is generally relatively affordable. Costs begin at just a few dollars for small, unprocessed pieces.

When artisans make obsidian jewelry, such as obsidian pendants or bracelets, they can significantly raise prices. The price of high-quality jewelry made from obsidian can range from $20 to several hundred dollars. This depends on its design, rarity, and whether it includes 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 is less valuable and more common. In contrast, rarer types like gold sheen or rainbow obsidian are more expensive. This is because they have a unique look and are harder to find.

This section will discuss the various price points of obsidian. The size, color, and purity of the ore largely determine the price of obsidian. The location of the market can also affect it.

How Much is 1 gram of obsidian worth?

You can sell obsidian by weight, such as a gram, but also by pound, carat, or kilogram.

No standard price exists for obsidian. You can purchase unpolished, common obsidian 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 because of 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

• A few known deposits exist.
  
• 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 sell for a much higher price. This is because of its distinct appearance. Consulting a professional for an accurate appraisal in such cases is best.

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 they are sharper than steel scalpels.

Artists and craftsmen use obsidian in decorative art and jewelry, and people also use it 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.

Many different fields use obsidian.

History & Fossils

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

Crystal Healing and Spiritual Practices

• Believed to provide safety.
  
• 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. Researchers, industries, and artists can use it 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. People often call it a "psychic cleaner" because it can cleanse one's aura from negative influences. People often wear obsidian as jewelry or keep it nearby to protect against psychic or emotional attacks.

Obsidian not only protects but also encourages 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 because of its unique qualities. A volcanic glass forms naturally. The benefits of the black obsidian band can include grounding and protection from negative energy.

People still highly prize obsidian, a stone used for jewelry and decorative purposes. 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. 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. 

People know black obsidian for its deep, glossy finish and intense energy. A grounding crystal 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. Ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans used obsidian 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 flexibility 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.

Many people believe that it protects against bad energy 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.?
Sellers generally price black obsidian 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?

No scientific evidence exists that obsidian stones can affect health or well-being. In some cultures, people believe that stones have special powers. These powers can influence a person's spirit and emotions.

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?

People use obsidian stone in more than just jewelry. Historians can use it to make tools because of its sharpness. In some medical procedures, doctors use it as a scalpel knife because of its fine edge.

Conclusion

Remember that the true value of obsidian goes far beyond its monetary value. A catalyst for growth and well-being, it can also serve as a strong grounding force.

Factors like formation, color variations, and cutting techniques greatly influence the quality of obsidian.

Purchasing from a trusted seller is important to ensure genuineness.