Snowflake Obsidian
Volcanic Glass var. Snowflake Obsidian · Decorative Stone / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline mineraloid with cristobalite crystallites)
Mineral Group
Mineraloid (Silicate-based volcanic glass)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with complex inclusions of Cristobalite
Formation Process
Igneous (Extrusive volcanic activity, rapid cooling of felsic lava with subsequent devitrification forming cristobalite spherulites)
About This Crystal
A polished heart-shaped carving featuring a deep black, opaque glass matrix contrasted with distinct white to light grey, star-like or snowflake-shaped inclusions known as cristobalite. The surface exhibits a smooth, highly reflective vitreous luster characteristic of polished glass.
Physical Characteristics
Black and white body color, white streak, no cleavage, perfect conchoidal fracture, specific gravity around 2.35 to 2.45, brittle tenacity, non-magnetic, non-fluorescent under standard UV light.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive (isotropic glass matrix), vitreous to greasy luster, opaque transparency, lacking notable pleochroism or dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
United States (Utah, Oregon, California), Mexico, Iceland, Italy, Japan
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, fair to poor toughness due to brittle nature and conchoidal fracture, moderate wearability for jewelry requiring protective settings.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, store away from harder minerals to prevent scratching, sensitive to harsh acids and physical impacts.
Rarity & Value
Common, highly affordable and widely accessible, value determined by contrast and pattern of the snowflake inclusions, typically sold as polished tumbled stones, carvings, and cabochons.
Special Characteristics
Features distinct radial clusters of cristobalite crystals (spherulites or snowflakes) embedded within a natural volcanic glass background, creating a stark visual contrast.
Lore & History
Historically used in ancient Mesoamerican cultures for arrowheads, blades, and ritual mirrors. In modern metaphysical traditions, it is considered a stone of purity, balance, and grounding, frequently associated with the root chakra.