Obsidian is a type of volcanic glass that has been formed from the high temperatures of a volcanic eruption, and has a smooth, shiny, non-translucent appearance. Obsidian, for one, has always been valued for its edge and beauty and one of the most magnificent and interesting kinds of this stone is the rainbow obsidian. Due to the kind of wavelengths which interact with its constituent mineral, this kind of obsidian is especially revered for the special likes of colors it produces, making it a valued gemstone, both for ornamental and spiritual purposes.
This article will shed light on what this rainbow obsidian is, how it was formed, and its characteristics, and importance in our lives as well as how to maintain the gemstone. Whether you are a gem lover, meditation practitioner or just interested in this beautiful and lustrous gemstone, you will find something interesting right here.
Table of Contents
What is Rainbow Obsidian?
Rainbow obsidian is another type of obsidian which by all means is less common; in addition, this type of obsidian changes colors when appreciated in different angles. Its most identifiable feature is that it bares hues of red, green, blue, purple and gold. This is due to such minor inclusions of minerals as iron and the overall glass like appearance of the stone giving it what is called Schiller or play of color effect.
Unlike most obsidian that is black or dark grey, the variations in color of rainbow obsidian are caused by how light reacts with the structure of the mineral. On earlier debates, the phenomenon resulted once light touches the surface of the stone; these inclusions would refract the light into several colors. It is most evident when the Gemstone is being carved into cabs or polished pieces that enhances the drooling colors of the Rainbow.
Geological Formation of Rainbow Obsidian
Rainbow obsidian like any other obsidian stone is formed by volcanic lava that solidifies and cools rapidly and does not from crystals. One must fully cool the lava — which it commonly does when it pours into water or going through air to form the glassy look of obsidian. What is special about this obsidian is fine mineral and the most important one is the iron oxide that is responsible for the color play.
These inclusions are not always uniformly present in such specimens and the intensity as well as the variety of colors can greatly differ from one specimen to the other. The stone although can be entirely black, but when it is taken closer to the light it can show some colored streak. These inclusions therefore require conditions in the magma and the surrounding environment of the cooling lava for them to form.
Rainbow obsidian is normally associated with active or even extinct volcanoes. This obsidian can be purchased from some parts of United States especially from Oregon state and Nevada, Mexico and some parts of Central America.
Physical Properties of Rainbow Obsidian
Hardness
Rainbow obsidian is as we have seen soft compared with most other gems and this is the same with most obsidian gemstones. The Moh’s scale of hardness puts it at ranging between 5.5 and 6. This means it can easily get scratched but if well handled it can be used in making of jewelries and carvings.
Color
The base color is generally a shiny opaque black but can refract colors in the light, red, green, blue, gold and purple.
Transparency
Obsidian is transparent and it possess a nonmetallic, vitreous appearance.
Weight
Since it is characterized by a glassy appearance, this mineral is comparatively heavy and can even feel much denser than it is visually.
Metaphysical Properties of Rainbow Obsidian
Rainbow obsidian as a crystal strikes the eye and additionally is appreciated in spiritual and healing practices. There is a strong opinion that rainbow obsidian has a powerful charge, giving a person an opportunity to get closer to the state of emotional and spiritual harmony. Some of the key metaphysical properties associated with this obsidian include:
Healing Energy
It is believed that the rainbow obsidian has a close relation with restoring the emotional body. borrows bad feelings and is believed to assist the wearer let go of vices, past harms, and fears. It is also used to perform self-healing meditation and to calm the mind during practices like yoga.
Protection
As it the other types of obsidian Rainbow obsidian is also believed to possess certain protective powers. It is believed to help protect the wearer against bad energies and loas, thus helping to create a protective barrier about the aura.
Grounding
It is also believed to help with the feeling of being rooted in the Earth in some manner. For that reason, it is said that someone wearing it feels more grounded and in touch with the eco system of the world.
Chakra Healing
Incidentally, rainbow obsidian is connected to the root and sacral chakras as this stone has earth and emotional healing qualities. It can be employed to dissolve any congestion in these centers and thus regain their circularity.
Transformation
Rainbow obsidian is a very colorful type of obsidian, and the colors of the rainbow found in it represents change and growth. This simple stone is believed to help let go of old patterns and welcome in change, which makes it especially potent for life path changers.
Symbolism and Uses
The metaphysical properties of rainbow obsidian are around capturing energy, changing problem energies into useful ones, and being used as a meditation tool when working on the self. Its shiny surface causes it to be sometimes called the stone of self-contemplation. This obsidian is sometimes used in meditative practices by letting practitioners gain entry to their selves, which is good for reflection.
Also, it has metaphysical uses, and is used to design jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. To significantly up its visual appeal it can be polished and embedded in silver or any other noble metals which give it a very appealing look for those whose interest is in its looks and those who can embrace cultural meaning behind it.
Rainbow obsidian is also employed in the ‘divination’, energy work, and shamanic journeying practices. They might also use it to assist in a healing session through the process of laying the stone on the person’s body in order to unlock the energy to help let go of energy blockages.
How to Care for Rainbow Obsidian
Despite the color and hardness of the gemstone, rainbow obsidian is a sensitive stone and should be worn and cared for appropriately. Here are some tips for caring for your rainbow obsidian jewelry or stones:
Cleaning
To clean your rainbow obsidian avoid using harsh soap or detergents, simply use a soft cloth that will only wipe the surface of the jewelry piece. returns and should never use chemicals that are very strong or rough cleaners that may scratch the surface and ruin the look of the stone.
Storing
If it’s not being used, it is advised to place rainbow obsidian in a soft pocket or jewelries case so that it won’t be exposed to gadgets, jewelry items or other things which may scratch its surface. However, do not leave it exposed to sun for very long time as this will fade the colors in the future.
Charging and Cleansing
Like all crystals and stones rainbow obsidian should be washed at least once a week in order to retain its energies. That way, you can wash the stone under clean water or place it on selenite or smoke sage and palo santo.
Avoid Impact
As obsidian is a type of volcanic glass, it can chip or break if dropped or struck with force. Be mindful when wearing or handling your rainbow obsidian items to prevent any damage.
Conclusion
Rainbow obsidian is one of the most beautiful gemstones able to amaze the audience by the sight of its color play and beautiful associations. Being an ornamental stone, or a stone that possess healing properties, this particular creation can be viewed as a double-edged sword. But on the way to become an ordinary rock it is extraordinary, and its appearance deeply into volcanic rock formation and is known now as a powerful tool to work out personal issues and trauma.
As with all the gemstones, it is important that if you are planning on purchasing rainbow obsidian, find one that has a personal significance to you. Its characteristically strong energy and captivating beauty make the stone a great fit for those looking for a power totem that also looks great.
FAQs about Rainbow Obsidian
Q1. What are the benefits of rainbow obsidian?
Rainbow Obsidian helps to introduce hope, light and increased energy into areas that are most closed, contracted and congested in the emotional energy field and provides fixes for spiritual light working in the auric field and physical vehicles. They mentioned that it is still a wonderful resource for dealing with depression, mood swings, hopelessness, or fear that turns into paralysis.
Q2. Is rainbow obsidian rare?
Rainbow obsidian can hardly be called a widespread type of gemstone; it is mined in comparatively few countries of the world. Due to its beauty and many properties that separate it as a species, is valued by collectors, jewelers, artists and anyone with an appreciation for the miraculous in today’s world.
Q3. Is rainbow obsidian a natural stone?
Yes, Rainbow Obsidian is natural gemstone found in nature.
Q4. Who should wear rainbow obsidian?
Obsidian is a stone that comes from the earth and it is extremely dark, so it works to protect you and bring you to the earth when you are in need; thus, people born in November or October should use it.
Q5. What are 3 uses for obsidian?
Obsidian has been employed throughout history as a weapon, an implement, tool, ornament, and mirror among others. Smooth curved surfaces and sharp broken edges makes obsidian, one of the most impressive tool-stones because of its conchoidal fracture.
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