Are you interested in learning about obsidian and finding out how much this fantastic stone is worth? If you are then this article is going to be just what you need.
So, without further ado let us dive right in and get started. There is so much to cover!
Is Obsidian Actually Worth Anything?
If we are talking about regular black obsidian stone, you are likely looking at something that is quite inexpensive and will not sell for that much.
Despite that, other varieties of obsidian which are not so common are actually worth quite a bit of money.
But what kinds of obsidian are actually worth something (see also, ‘How Much is Jade Worth?‘)? Well, there are a few types and in the next section we are going to cover exactly that. So, let’s get started!
What Factors Determine The Value Of Obsidian
In this section we are going to take a closer look at what factors might make obsidian more expensive to purchase. So, without further ado, let us dive right in and get started!
1. The Texture Of The Obsidian
The first thing you need to pay attention to is the texture of the obsidian. If your obsidian has white or gray cristobalite crystals which contrast against the glassy dark obsidian you will get a wonderful effect which resembles snowflakes.
When obsidian has this pattern they are known as snowflake obsidian. This variety is often polished and used to make beautiful pieces of jewelry.
There is also what is known as mahogany obsidian which is a wonderful mixture of black bands and reddish-brown bands.
These colors together make for a gorgeous piece of stone. The reason that this type of mahogany is called mahogany is that when these colors are mixed together the stone can look like mahogany wood.
2. The Rainbow Effect In The Obsidian
If obsidian has the rainbow effect (see also, ‘What is Rainbow Obsidian?‘) it is likely one of the most valuable varieties of obsidian. It is quite a rare type of stone within the European market. Despite this it has become quite a popular stone within our modern civilization.
Research studies on this type of obsidian have been done. It has indicated that rainbow obsidian has orientated nanorods of hedenbergite. These rods are what make the rainbow effect happen because of the thin-film interface.
The most common area that this type of obsidian is found is in Jalisco which is a place in Mexico, as well as the following places: La Revoltosa Mine, San Andreas, Municipio de Magdalena.
When rainbow obsidian is sold it is most often carved into hearts, flowers, or butterflies. All of which are fantastic for highlighting the rainbow effect that this stone holds.
3. The Fire Effect In The Obsidian
This type of obsidian is also one of the most valuable. It is most commonly found in Oregon. Its coloring is shown through very thin layers which have a series of vibrant colors.
One sample of fire obsidian could have orange stripes, pink stripes, greenish stripes and as well as a bunch of other colors. All of this contrasts beautifully against the rest of the obsidian.
Each layer within a fire obsidian is between three-hundred and seven-hundred nanometers.
These layers have very concentrated nanocrystals which are why there are so many brilliant and vibrant colors visible in each reflection of this kind of obsidian.
4. The Cat’s Eye Effect In The Obsidian
When obsidian has the cat’s eye effect it is usually found in obsidian that is sheen. When it is cut en cabochon there will be a light stripe which moves on the stone;’s surface.
This can be seen when you move the stone from side to side and you see it from various angles.
Normally obsidian will have a beautiful silver or gold sheen which happens when light reflects from the tiny mineral inclusions, little rock debris, or from gas bubbles that have formed when the lava flow has solidified.
5. The Historical Background Of The Obsidian
One reason that obsidian might be worth a bunch is if it has historical implications. This stone was used among many ancient peoples around the world. Especially those that lived near regions that had volcanic activity.
Thai stone was available in nearly every continent around the world. Which is why it was a vital resource for many people like Mayan Indians as other people.
It was used to make sharpened weapons or tools. So, obsidian that has a historical background will be worth more.
What Is Obsidian Worth Per Unit Of Measurement?
Let’s take a look at what obsidian might be worth depending on the unit that is being sold. It might surprise you to learn just how much these units actually sell for. So, let’s take a look!
Per Carat – You will receive between three and five dollars per faceted stone.
Per Gram – You will receive between three and two cents and eight cents per gram.
Per Ounce – You will receive between fifty-six cents and two collars and twenty-four dollars per ounce.
Per Pound – You will receive between nine dollars and six cents and thirty-six dollars and two cents per pound.
Per Kilo –You will receive between twenty and eighty dollars per kilo.
Keep in mind that the prices we have mentioned here may vary depending on the market. So, your piece of obsidian may sell for slightly more or less than the number we have indicated here.
So, make sure to consider that if you want to buy or sell obsidian jewelry, stones or anything else made from these amazing stones.
What Is Obsidian Worth Based On Color Or Type?
Let’s take a look at what each of the different obsidian colors are worth. It might surprise you to learn just how much each type will actually sell for. So, let’s take a look!
Green – This color is typically worth between six dollars and ten dollars per 5 x 5 cm for rough obsidian pieces.
Snowflake – This color is typically worth between fifteen dollars and twenty dollars per 100 grams for rough obsidian pieces.
Red – This color is typically worth between ten dollars and thirty dollars per 5 to 10 cm grams for tumbled obsidian pieces.
Raw – This color is typically worth between twenty dollars and forty dollars per kilo of obsidian pieces.
Black – This color is typically worth between twenty dollars and eighty dollars per kilo of obsidian pieces.
Rainbow – This color is typically worth between twenty dollars and one-hundred and fifty dollars per 5 x 5 for tumbled obsidian pieces.
Fire – This color is typically worth between thirty dollars and one-hundred and seventy dollars per small tumbled piece of obsidian stone.
Mahogany – This color is typically worth between ten dollars and forty dollars per 10 grams of obsidian pieces.
Keep in mind that the prices we have mentioned here may vary depending on the market. So, your piece of obsidian may sell for slightly more or less than the number we have indicated here.
So, make sure to consider that if you want to buy or sell obsidian jewelry, stones or anything else made from these amazing stones.
Final Thoughts
We hope that you have enjoyed reading this article and learning about these phenomenal obsidian stones. Remember that the prices will vary depending on the market. So the number we have mentioned here may not be exact.
With all of that said, we hope that you have a good day. Goodbye for now!
Hi, my name is Andrea Daehma and I have been collecting and using crystals in my everyday life for just over six years now.
I have my own collection of crystals gracing my house, several for every scenario I could think of.
Learning about crystals has truly changed my life, and I want to help others turn their life around too. Please enjoy my website and find your own small stone to begin your crystal journey with!
