Obsidian is formed volcanically when lava rich in silicic acid cools extremely rapidly. The lava hardens so quickly that no crystalline structures are able to form. Obsidian was used for some of the oldest cultural artefacts of man. As early as Palaeolithic times, obsidian blades were used for cult purposes as has been shown by finds from burials. In antiquity, it was regarded as a stone that would drive out demons and in the Middle Ages, as an aid for magical rituals. The Mayan priests of the god Tetzcatilipoca ('smoking mirror') employed obsidian mirrors for predicting the future. According to very ancient traditions, obsidian was also used for healing wounds and alleviating pain - an interesting connection since it also supplied the material for some of the first blades and weapons ever made. Obsidian is supposed to derive its name from the Roman Obsius who, according to Pliny's reports, found the stone in present day Ethiopia.
Spiritually obsidian helps us attain integrity through helping us to see our shadow sides in their true nature, so they can once more become part of the self. This is how to attain the 'unimpeachability of the warrior', a spiritual invulnerability and freedom (liberty). In this manner, forgotten capabilities may be retrieved and our perception refined to the point of clairvoyance.
Emotionally obsidian dissolves shocks, fear, blocks and traumatization. It has an enlivening effect and brings hidden inner images to light. Obsidian bestows an unimagined depth on our emotional nature and helps overcome any type of obsession. It purifies the atmosphere of negative energies and serves as a protection against psychic attacks.
Mentally obsidian expands the consciousness and helps to change restricting beliefs, communication and behavioural patterns. It sharpens the senses and helps the intellect penetrate mysterious phenomena, experiences and accounts.
Physically obsidian dissolves pain, tensions, energy blocks and vascular contraction. Shock sustained through injury is dissolved on a cellular level and thus it helps staunch bleeding and accelerate the healing of wounds. Obsidian improves the circulation, even in extreme cases such as hardening of the arteries in the legs caused by smoking, and also ensures warming of the extremities, for example, chronically cold hands and feet.
Recharge obsidian under any light source.