How Much Is Snowflake Obsidian Worth?

When I first started selling gemstones, Snowflake Obsidian wasn’t on my radar. I was focused on the more obvious choices—Tiger’s Eye, Amethyst, and the like.

But as my collection of stones expanded, Snowflake Obsidian snuck its way into my life, and now I can’t imagine my shop without it.

The delicate contrast of white and black, resembling snowflakes drifting across a dark winter sky, makes this stone uniquely beautiful.

So, let’s dive into the real question: how much is Snowflake Obsidian worth?

In this blog, I’ll break down the factors that influence the price of Snowflake Obsidian, the typical price ranges you can expect, and whether it’s worth adding to your collection.

Plus, I'll answer some common questions I often get from customers about this stone.

What is Snowflake Obsidian?

First things first—what exactly is Snowflake Obsidian?

It’s a naturally occurring volcanic glass, formed from rapidly cooling lava.

The “snowflakes” that give the stone its name are actually spherulites, which are small, white, radially clustered crystals of cristobalite (a form of silica) that develop as the stone cools.

This stone is mainly found in areas with volcanic activity, particularly in places like Mexico, the United States (especially in Utah and Oregon), and Iceland.

Its striking appearance and affordable price make it a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts, jewelers, and collectors alike.

What Factors Influence the Value of Snowflake Obsidian?

Let’s get right to it—what makes one piece of Snowflake Obsidian worth more than another?

The price of Snowflake Obsidian can vary widely, depending on several factors.

1. Size and Weight

Bigger is often better when it comes to gemstones, and Snowflake Obsidian is no exception.

Larger pieces, especially those that have been well-polished, will command higher prices.

A small tumbled stone might only set you back a few dollars, but a large, flawless piece can go for much more.

2. Quality of the Snowflake Pattern

Not all Snowflake Obsidian is created equal.

The key feature that makes this stone so attractive is the “snowflake” pattern, and the more defined and visually striking the pattern, the higher the price.

Stones with a good balance of black and white, where the snowflakes are evenly distributed and clearly visible, will always fetch a premium.

3. Polish and Finish

As with most gemstones, the polish and finish of Snowflake Obsidian can greatly affect its value.

Rough, unpolished stones are generally less expensive, while a highly polished piece that brings out the beauty of the snowflake patterns can command a higher price.

If you’re looking for jewelry-quality pieces, expect to pay more for a smooth, glossy finish.

4. Origin

Snowflake Obsidian can be found in several places around the world, but stones from certain locations may have unique characteristics that make them more valuable.

For example, stones from Mexico are often prized for their clarity and even snowflake distribution, while obsidian from the U.S. tends to have a denser black color.

In the world of gemstones, where a stone comes from can sometimes affect its price significantly.

5. Craftsmanship in Jewelry

If you’re buying Snowflake Obsidian in the form of jewelry, the craftsmanship plays a huge role in the final price.

A beautifully set pendant in sterling silver or gold can drastically increase the value compared to a simple tumbled stone.

Hand-carved pieces or those set in intricate designs are naturally worth more due to the labor and skill involved.

Typical Price Ranges for Snowflake Obsidian

So, how much does Snowflake Obsidian actually cost?

Based on my experience and what I’ve seen across the market, here’s a rough breakdown of the price ranges you can expect:

• Tumbled Stones: These small, polished pieces are the most affordable and typically range from $2 to $10 depending on the size and quality. They’re perfect for beginners or anyone looking to add a bit of Snowflake Obsidian to their collection without breaking the bank.

• Rough Stones: Unpolished or rough pieces of Snowflake Obsidian can vary greatly in price based on their size. Small, rough stones might cost around $5 to $15, while larger, more impressive specimens can fetch anywhere from $20 to $100.

• Polished Specimens: For larger polished pieces, the price goes up significantly. A well-polished palm-sized stone might sell for $20 to $50, while larger, display-quality pieces can range from $100 to $300.

• Jewelry: Snowflake Obsidian jewelry is where you’ll see the biggest variation in price. Simple pendants or rings can start at around $20, but more intricate pieces, especially those set in precious metals, can range from $50 to $200 or more.

Why Snowflake Obsidian is Worth Collecting

I’ll be honest: Snowflake Obsidian is one of those stones that doesn’t get as much love as it deserves.

It’s often overshadowed by flashier gemstones like Ruby or Sapphire, but in my opinion, that’s part of its charm.

There’s something understated yet undeniably striking about the contrast of the black and white patterns.

It’s a stone that surprises people—many customers have told me they weren’t initially drawn to it, but once they saw it in person, they couldn’t resist buying a piece.

From a collector’s perspective, Snowflake Obsidian is great because it’s relatively affordable, but still visually stunning.

You can build an impressive collection of high-quality pieces without having to spend a fortune, which isn’t something you can say about many other gemstones.

Is Snowflake Obsidian Good for Jewelry?

Absolutely! Snowflake Obsidian is a popular choice for jewelry, especially in pieces like pendants, rings, and bracelets.

Its durability (it has a Mohs hardness of around 5 to 5.5) makes it suitable for everyday wear, although it’s not as tough as stones like diamonds or sapphires.

If you’re wearing a Snowflake Obsidian ring, for example, just be mindful of it when doing heavy-duty work.

Personally, I love how Snowflake Obsidian looks in minimalist settings—there’s something about its black-and-white contrast that pairs beautifully with silver or even leather.

If you’re looking for a unique but understated stone for your jewelry collection, Snowflake Obsidian is definitely worth considering.

Metaphysical Properties of Snowflake Obsidian

I’d be remiss not to mention the metaphysical side of Snowflake Obsidian.

Whether or not you’re into the spiritual side of things, it’s worth noting that many people believe this stone has powerful grounding and protective qualities.

It’s said to help balance the mind, body, and spirit, making it a popular choice for those practicing meditation or looking to relieve stress.

One of the most interesting things I’ve noticed is how many of my customers are drawn to Snowflake Obsidian during times of personal change or upheaval.

There’s something about its grounding energy that seems to resonate with people who are going through a period of transition, whether it’s a career change, a new relationship, or even just moving to a new city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Snowflake Obsidian expensive?

Not really! It’s one of the more affordable gemstones.

Tumbled stones can start as low as $2, and even larger polished pieces can be found for under $100.

2. How can you tell if Snowflake Obsidian is real?

Genuine Snowflake Obsidian will have a distinctive pattern of white snowflake-like inclusions on a black background.

If the stone looks too perfect or has a uniform pattern, it could be a synthetic or treated stone.

3. Where is Snowflake Obsidian found?

The majority of Snowflake Obsidian comes from areas with volcanic activity, particularly in Mexico, the United States, and Iceland.

4. Can you wear Snowflake Obsidian every day?

Yes, Snowflake Obsidian is durable enough for everyday wear, especially in jewelry like pendants, rings, and bracelets.

However, it’s best to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or rough handling.

5. What are the metaphysical properties of Snowflake Obsidian?

Many believe Snowflake Obsidian has grounding and protective properties.

It’s said to help balance emotions, relieve stress, and promote clarity of thought, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.

Final Thoughts on the Value of Snowflake Obsidian

So, how much is Snowflake Obsidian worth?

The answer depends on a variety of factors, but in general, it’s one of the more affordable yet stunning gemstones out there.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a jewelry lover, or someone who’s into the metaphysical properties of stones, Snowflake Obsidian is a worthy addition to any collection.

Its unique appearance, accessibility, and subtle elegance make it a great choice for those looking to add something different to their gemstone or jewelry collection.

Personally, I think Snowflake Obsidian is one of the best-kept secrets in the world of gemstones—and at its price point, it’s hard to go wrong.