What is Snowflake Obsidian? Meaning, Symbolism & Uses of this Mysterious Black Gem

A dramatic stone with a striking pattern, the Snowflake Obsidian is a popular gem for a number of reasons. The bright snowflakes against the deep black are an intriguing combination and it’s obvious why so many people are drawn to this black stone. Not only is this mysterious gem lovely to look at, but it’s got some interesting properties as well.

What Is Snowflake Obsidian?

Snowflake Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that gets its name from the tiny white mineral inclusions, cristobalite, that form little snowflakes-like patterns in the dark stone. It is a smooth stone that is often polished into small gems and beads, which are then fashioned into bracelets and pendants. The hard stone is also ideal for carving small figurines and sculptures.

How Is Snowflake Obsidian Formed?

Like Black Obsidian, Snowflake Obsidian is formed from volcanic lava and gas cooling down at a rapid rate. What makes Snowflake Obsidian different is, when the lava cools, small particles of white mineral get trapped into the stone and this is what forms the intricate snowflake pattern. The stone is then mined from its deposits and polished into the smooth gems and shapes that we know and love.

Where Is Snowflake Obsidian Found?

Snowflake Obsidian is found predominantly in North and South America, but reserves have also been found in Italy and Scotland, as well as some African countries too. If you’re looking specifically for a gem to have in your own home, you can order stones online from a number of reputable stores.

Snowflake Obsidian Meaning & Symbolism

Snowflake Obsidian is said to purify and ground body, soul and aura. It centers and focuses attention, which can be really useful in chaotic or stressful environments. The black of the obsidian and the white of the snowflakes represent the balancing of dark and light, and this stone is known to be a bringer of balance between two opposing sides.

There are many dualities that the stone symbolises. It helps you see the bright side and reminds you that even though you will encounter tough times, there will always be light inside yourself.

In meditation, it facilitates looking inward and finding the inner strength to overcome whatever obstacle is in your path. It is protective of both your space and your aura, so it is useful for keeping your space calm and balanced, and also for shielding you from the negative energy of a toxic coworker or family member that you are unable to avoid.

What Is Snowflake Obsidian Used For?

The Snowflake Obsidian is often referred to as the key that unlocks a world of different perspectives. Many people have reported feeling a calming aura when holding the stone. It is said to have the ability to pull negative energy out of the room which then leaves space for complete mental clarity and opportunity for a world of possibility.

Snowflake obsidian is a very healing stone and its powerful magnetism brings feelings to the surface that have been pushed down and repressed. Once these feelings arise, they can then be faced and the work can be done to resolve hidden issues and wounds.

Snowflake Obsidian is said to have an amazing ability to bring truth to the surface, making it a valuable therapeutic tool. It is commonly used for past life work because it has the ability to ready you for a deep meditative state. In terms of health, it is said to be helpful in the treatment of the skeletal system and has benefits for those suffering skin afflictions.

What Chakra Is Snowflake Obsidian?

This stone activates the root and earth star chakras, and also the third eye chakras. When activated, the root and earth star chakras work to send the negative energy down through the body and into the earth while simultaneously pulling positive energy up through the ground.

These chakras are associated with self love and inner peace, and the combination of these is helpful when uniting body and mind. The third eye chakra makes it easier to tap into psychic ability and open channels to past lives. This is said to help you approach the future with more clarity and understanding.

What Is The Difference Between Obsidian And Snowflake Obsidian?

Snowflake Obsidian and Black Obsidian share many of the same characteristics and origins, and when you put the two side by side it is obvious that they come from the same family because they share the deep black of the obsidian. The only difference is the star shaped white flakes that can be seen under the Snowflake Obsidian’s surface.

How Do You Cleanse & Recharge Snowflake Obsidian?

The best way to cleanse snowflake obsidian is to simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or run it under some warm water. The makeup of the stone means it can handle water cleansing unlike other crystals of a similar nature. Since the Snowflake Obsidian comes from volcanic heat, recharging with fire is an effective method too. Surround your Snowflake Obsidian with an array of candles and leave to recharge for an hour or two.

How Can You Tell If Snowflake Obsidian Is Real?

The first sign of a fake Snowflake Obsidian is in the snowflakes.

Real Snowflake Obsidians have a variety of swirls and tones within the white inclusions that are not possible to replicate in the fakes. If the Snowflake Obsidian is not real, the snowflakes will be flat and monotone but they will also stand out more from the black of the stone. In real obsidian, the boundaries between the snowflakes and the background merge slightly.

The best and most effective way to test is a Mohs hardness test. Nothing softer than a 5 scale should be able to scratch the surface of a Snowflake Obsidian, while the fakes are often made from far less superior materials.

If you’re looking for a way to consider all sides of a situation and unlock perspectives that are trapped somewhere inside, the Snowflake Obsidian is the stone for you. What’s more, it looks really beautiful on the mantel too!