Home > Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake Obsidian

A species of Obsidian, Also known as Spherulitic Obsidian, Gray Snowflake Obsidian

A type of volcanic glass, snowflake Obsidian differs from true obsidian via its patches of cloudy white or gray. These spots are properly known as spherulites, and they are really a type of quartz crystal embedded into the glass. Although it lacks the toolmaking capabilities of true obsidian, people collect it for its beauty.

Hardness:

5 - 5.5

Density:

2.35 - 2.6 g/cm³

General Info About Snowflake Obsidian

Instantly Identify Rocks with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock/gemstone/mineral ID and properties analysis, gaining quick insights on characteristics, market value, collecting tips, care, real vs fake, and health risks, etc.

Download the App for Free

Physical Properties of Snowflake Obsidian

Texture

Glassy

Luster

Vitreous

Diaphaneity

Translucent to opaque

Colors

Black with white patches

Magnetism

Potentially Magnetic

Fracture

Conchoidal

Hardness

5 - 5.5 , Soft

Density

2.35 - 2.6 g/cm³, Normal Weight

AI rock expert in your pocket

Optical Properties of Snowflake Obsidian

Refractive Index

1.450-1.550

Pleochroism

None

Dispersion

0.01

Optical Character

Isotropic

Health Risk of Snowflake Obsidian

Explore Rock and Mineral Safety Tips

Unlock the secrets of potential risks,stay safe with preventive measures!

Download the App for Free

What is the hazards of Snowflake Obsidian?

Harm Type

Physical Toxicity

Snowflake Obsidian in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.

Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.

How to prevent the risks of Snowflake Obsidian?

Avoid long-term inhalation of its dust!

Snowflake Obsidian is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing snowflake Obsidian, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.

Discover the Value of Snowflake Obsidian

Discovering the Diverse Values of Rocks

Unveiling the Rarity, Aesthetics, and Economic Significance of Rocks

Download the App for Free

Rarity

Uncommon

Collection Recommendation

4.0 out of 5

Popularity

3.9

Aesthetic

4.3

Rarity

3.8

Sci-Cultural Value

3.8

The Market Price of Snowflake Obsidian

Exploring the Market Prices for a Variety of Rocks

Delving into the market values and investment potential of a wide variety of rocks

Download the App for Free

Weight is a decisive factor affecting the price of snowflake Obsidian. The price of a tumbled stone about 2.5 cm across is usually $1-$5/piece.

Rough/Tumbled Price

Smaller Than Hand (0-1.5in)

$2 - $10

Close Hand (1.5-3in)

$10 - $40

Equal To Hand (3-6in)

$40 - $60

Bigger Than Hand (>6in)

$55

How to Care for Snowflake Obsidian?

Instantly Identify Rocks and Learn How to Care for Them with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock/gemstone/mineral ID and properties analysis, gaining quick insights on toughness, stability, usage, storage, cleaning, selection, etc.

Download the App for Free

Durability

Nondurable

Scratch resistance

Poor

Toughness of Snowflake Obsidian

Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent

Snowflake Obsidian exhibits poor toughness due to its volcanic glass structure, lacking a crystalline lattice and making it susceptible to chipping and fracturing under stress or impact.

Stability of Snowflake Obsidian

Sensitive

Stable

Snowflake Obsidian maintains its integrity under most everyday conditions. It resists water, sunlight, and dry environments but should avoid extreme heat and harsh chemicals to preserve its appearance.

More Care Tips of Snowflake Obsidian

Characteristics of Snowflake Obsidian

Your Comprehensive Rock Characteristics Guide

In-depth exploration of rock types, features, and formation aspects

Download the App for Free

Cultural Significance of Snowflake Obsidian

Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Rock Culture

Unveiling the mysteries of rock culture - exploring uses, history, and healing properties, etc

Download the App for Free

Uses of Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake Obsidian is a hard stone, durable and is used in the furniture and construction industries for tabletops, tiles and work surfaces. Snowflake Obsidian is also a popular tumbled rock and is used in a variety of jewelry and ornaments.

Healing Properties of Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake Obsidian is considered a grounding stone that may provide a sense of peace and calm when used on the Third Eye chakra. It is an excellent choice in the home to encourage harmony and balance. It is said to make a person more aware of coincidences in their life and help in changing old behaviors.

Chakras

Root, Third Eye