What Is Snowflake Obsidian Composed Of?

Formation

• Hydration occurs when atmospheric water is absorbed by the obsidian, which increases the water content within the rock. This type of obsidian is referred to as devitrified, essentially meaning the removal of the glassy property of obsidian. Ball-like shapes potentially form due to the secondary fibrous mineral crystals from the devitrification process and are embedded in the obsidian. These are called spherulites or referred to snowflake obsidian.

Geography

• Obsidian is basically a glass formed when volcanic magma high in silica is cooled quickly. Consequently, obsidian is generally found in areas of instability in the earth's crust. When most of the water in the magma is released as steam, the silica-rich magma becomes very pasty and thick. As this volcanic magma quickly cools, mineral crystals are unable to be formed and the glassy obsidian is the result. Obsidian is formed toward the end of the volcanic cycle and is found in areas such as the Glass Buttes of Oregon. The Yellowstone Cauldron is another area where snowflake obsidian is found.

Colors

• Snowflake obsidian is one of many different colors that obsidian comes in. Depending on content of the volcanic magma when cooled, lends different colors to the obsidian. Most obsidian is black or black with the snowflake configurations. However, obsidian is also found in brown, red, gold and silver sheen, green, mahogany, lizard skin and midnight lace. Minerals such as magnetite and biotite form the black obsidian whereas different types of feldspar result in the purple, blue, green and bronze of rainbow obsidian.

Uses

• Snowflake obsidian is often saught by rock collectors and is also used in jewelry. As a crystal in herbal healing practices, snowflake obsidian provides balance during stressful times. It is considered a stone of purity and serenity, according to the website Herbal Healing. Snowflake obsidian brings the wearer protection against emotional and physical harm.