Blue Obsidian: Complete Buying Guide, Meaning, Uses, Properties & Facts

Blue Obsidian, recognized for its distinctive blue hue and potent metaphysical attributes, has gained popularity as a desired stone for jewelry and spiritual uses. 

In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore Blue Obsidian – its significance, uses, features, and interesting facts. From its origins and formation to its healing properties and how to care for it, we’ll cover everything you need to know about blue obsidian. 

So, whether you’re looking to add this captivating crystal to your collection or seeking its energetic benefits, keep reading to unlock the secrets of Blue Obsidian.

What is Blue Obsidian?

Blue obsidian is a type of obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass that is formed when felsic lava rapidly cools without crystal growth. It is called blue obsidian due to its blue color, which can range from light blue to dark blue or even bluish-grey.

Unlike other varieties of obsidian, blue obsidian is quite rare. The color is typically caused by very small mineral crystals or mineral impurities within the glass. It is usually translucent and has a glassy luster, like all obsidian. It can vary in color from light blue to dark blue or bluish-grey. 

Unlike some other types of obsidian, blue obsidian is usually a solid color and does not have spots or patterns. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from other blue stones, but its glassy luster and lack of crystal structure are usually good indicators.

Symbolic Meaning

Blue obsidian is often seen as a sign of peace and calm in many cultures due to its beautiful blue color. It’s linked with deep thinking and mental growth.

This stone is associated with clear communication, understanding, and peace, particularly in relationships. It’s thought to promote better communication and bring calmness to both mind and body. It’s also used for safeguarding and healing, as it’s believed to get rid of bad vibes and create balance.

Healing Properties and Uses

Blue Obsidian is believed to have various healing properties in spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical aspects, although it’s important to note that these properties are based on metaphysical beliefs and not scientific evidence. Here’s an overview of the healing properties attributed to Blue Obsidian:

Emotional Healing

• Calming and Soothing: Blue Obsidian is considered a calming and soothing stone. It is believed to help alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting a sense of peace and relaxation.
• Emotional Clarity: This crystal is thought to assist in gaining clarity about one’s emotions, helping individuals understand and process their feelings more effectively. It can be used as a tool for emotional healing and releasing emotional blockages.

Spiritual Healing

• Communication: Blue Obsidian is believed to help individuals communicate more openly and honestly, fostering better relationships and facilitating spiritual growth.

• Enhanced Intuition: Some people use Blue Obsidian for enhancing their intuitive abilities. It is thought to stimulate clairvoyance and telepathic communication, allowing individuals to connect more deeply with their spiritual guides.

Mental Healing

• Mental Clarity: Blue Obsidian is said to clear mental fog and confusion, aiding in mental clarity and focus. It may help individuals make decisions with greater discernment.

• Self-Awareness: This stone is believed to enhance self-awareness and self-acceptance, which can lead to personal growth and self-improvement.

Physical Healing

• Physical Relaxation: Some people use Blue Obsidian for relaxation and stress relief, which may indirectly contribute to physical well-being.

• Throat and Communication: Due to its association with the throat chakra, Blue Obsidian is thought to support throat and voice-related issues. It may be used in holistic healing approaches for ailments related to the throat.

Remember, the therapeutic benefits of crystals such as Blue Obsidian stem from metaphysical beliefs and should not replace professional medical or psychological care. While some people find crystals helpful in holistic healing, it’s vital to keep an open yet skeptical mind and consult with healthcare experts for any health concerns.

Chakra Association and Balancing

Blue obsidian is often associated with the throat chakra, which according to various healing practices, can aid in balancing energy flow and promoting clear communication. This unique characteristic has contributed significantly to its market demand within alternative therapy circles.

It is important to cleanse and recharge your chakra stone in order to maintain its energy and effectiveness. To learn more, you can read our article on obsidian crystal chakra.

Zodiac Connection and Astrological Benefits

Blue obsidian is associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius and Scorpio.

Scorpio is often linked to transformation and emotional depth, and Blue Obsidian’s properties of emotional healing and clarity may resonate with Scorpio individuals. 

Sagittarius is associated with a quest for knowledge and truth, and Blue Obsidian’s properties related to communication and clarity might align with Sagittarius traits as well.

Ultimately, the choice of crystals should be based on your personal preferences and how you resonate with their energies, whether or not they are specifically associated with your zodiac sign.

Crystal Pairings for Blue Obsidian

Pairing crystals with Blue Obsidian can be a personal and intuitive practice, depending on your specific intentions and goals. Here are some crystals that are often chosen to complement and enhance the energies of Blue Obsidian:

• Amethyst is known for its calming and spiritual properties. Pairing it with Blue Obsidian can create a harmonious balance between emotional healing (Blue Obsidian) and spiritual insight (Amethyst).
• Lapis Lazuli is associated with wisdom and truth. It can complement Blue Obsidian’s communication and clarity energies, enhancing your ability to express your thoughts and feelings honestly and authentically.
• Clear Quartz is a versatile crystal that can amplify the properties of other crystals. When paired with Blue Obsidian, it can intensify the healing and clarifying energies of both stones.
• Selenite is known for its purifying and cleansing properties. It can help clear any negative energies in your space and enhance the overall effectiveness of your crystal work, including that with Blue Obsidian.
• Angelite is often associated with communication with the angelic realm and enhancing spiritual awareness. It can work well alongside Blue Obsidian to facilitate honest and compassionate communication, whether with others or in your spiritual practices.
• Rose Quartz is the stone of love and compassion. When used alongside Blue Obsidian, it can infuse your emotional healing work with feelings of self-love, self-acceptance, and empathy towards others.
• Aquamarine is associated with calming energies and emotional balance. Pairing it with Blue Obsidian can enhance your ability to manage and heal emotional turmoil.
• Celestite is known for its angelic and calming energies. It can assist in creating a serene and peaceful environment that complements the emotional healing qualities of Blue Obsidian.

Remember that the choice of crystals and their pairings should align with your personal intentions and goals. Trust your intuition when selecting crystals, and consider the specific qualities and energies that resonate with you and your needs at the time.

Historical Significance of Blue Obsidian

Blue obsidian is a rare form of volcanic glass that is favored for its striking blue color. Its historical significance lies mainly in its use by various ancient cultures, particularly in Mesoamerica, for crafting tools, weapons, and ornamental objects.

1. Ancient Tool Making: Obsidian, including blue obsidian, was a popular material for making tools and weapons due to its sharpness and durability. Early human societies, including the Aztecs and Mayans, used obsidian to craft arrowheads, knives, and other cutting tools.
2. Trade and Economy: In certain cultures, obsidian was a valuable trade commodity. Its beauty and rarity made it sought after, and it was often traded over long distances. This helped stimulate early economies and facilitated cultural exchange.
3. Spiritual and Cultural Significance: Many ancient cultures attributed special spiritual or magical properties to obsidian. It was often used in rituals and ceremonies, and was sometimes buried with the dead as a grave offering. In modern times, blue obsidian is often used in metaphysical practices for its perceived healing properties.
4. Artistic Use: Beyond its practical uses, obsidian was also used for artistic purposes. The Aztecs, for example, made intricate masks and other ceremonial objects out of obsidian, including blue obsidian. These artifacts are renowned for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Origin and Mining Locations

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when felsic lava extruded from a volcano cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. Blue obsidian is a variant of obsidian that has a blue tinge to it.

Natural blue obsidian is extremely rare. It’s believed that the blue color is caused by very small mineral crystals or mineral impurities within the obsidian, such as Dumortierite or Magnesium.

As for mining locations, some sources suggest that blue obsidian can be found in locations where obsidian is typically found, such as Hawaii, Japan, Mexico, South America, and some parts of the United States (like California, Oregon, and Arizona). However, these are not specific to blue obsidian and the occurrence of this variant in these locations has not been conclusively proven.

Physical Properties and Hardness

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when felsic lava extruded from a volcano cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. Blue obsidian is a variant of this volcanic glass, and it has quite a few unique properties and characteristics:

1. Color: Blue obsidian, as the name suggests, is primarily blue in color. The blue can range from light to dark shades, often appearing as a deep, smoky blue or a lighter, more transparent blue.
2. Transparency: Blue obsidian, like other obsidian types, can be semi-transparent or translucent. When held up to light, it often allows light to pass through, giving it a beautiful, glowing appearance.
3. Luster: Blue obsidian has a vitreous (glass-like) luster due to its glassy composition. This means that it has a shiny, glossy surface that reflects light.
4. Hardness: On the Mohs hardness scale, obsidian rates between 5 and 6. This means it’s relatively hard and durable, but it can still be scratched by harder materials like quartz.
5. Fracture: Obsidian has a conchoidal fracture, meaning it breaks or chips off in complex, curved shapes. This property makes it ideal for creating sharp-edged tools and weapons, and it was widely used for this purpose in ancient times.
6. Formation: Blue obsidian is formed from rapidly cooling lava, which doesn’t have time to crystallize and instead forms a glass. The blue color is often caused by very tiny mineral inclusions or microscopic bubbles in the glass.
7. Rarity: Blue obsidian is relatively rare compared to other types of obsidian, such as black or mahogany obsidian.
8. No Cleavage: Unlike many other types of rocks and minerals, obsidian does not have a natural tendency to break along flat planes. This is another characteristic related to its glass-like structure.

Buying Guide

The value of this blue obsidian depends on several factors. Key among these are the rarity and quality. Specifically, blue obsidian of high quality and strong color is more expensive. Also, stones with less imperfections cost more.

Size and cut also affect the price. It’s worth noting that prices can differ based on the location due to varying supply and demand in different areas.

To help you understand what to look for and consider when purchasing this beautiful gemstone, read our article on the complete buying guide for all types of obsidian crystal with prices.

Care, Maintenance, and Cleaning

Proper care, maintenance, and cleaning are essential for preserving the aesthetic appeal and longevity of blue obsidian. Read our article for tips to help you take care for all types of obsidian crystal.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Blue Obsidian gemstone offers both aesthetic and healing properties. Its volcanic formation contributes to its unique physical characteristics and hardness. The stone’s symbolic meaning, chakra association, zodiacal connection, and healing uses enhance its value from a holistic perspective.

When purchasing this gemstone, various price factors should be considered. Proper care, maintenance, and cleaning are crucial in preserving the stone’s quality. Thus, understanding these aspects can lead to an informed purchase decision regarding Blue Obsidian.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Rarity of Blue Obsidian Compared to Other Types of Obsidian?

Blue obsidian, compared to other obsidian types, is relatively rare due to its specific formation conditions. Its rarity contributes to a higher economic value in the gemstone market than most common varieties of obsidian.

Can Blue Obsidian Be Used in Jewelry Making?

Yes, blue obsidian can be incorporated into jewelry designs. Its aesthetic appeal and durability make it a suitable choice for various adornments including necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets despite its relative rarity compared to other obsidians.

Can black obsidian be blue?

Obsidian is usually black; however, it can also be found in other colors like green, brown, red, blue, and yellow. The color difference is due to impurities within the mineral. So yes, black obsidian can be blue in rare cases. It’s often referred to as ‘Blue Obsidian,’ but it’s essential to note that much of the blue obsidian in the market is man-made glass. Genuine blue obsidian is exceptionally rare.

Can Blue Obsidian Change Color or Lose Its Intensity Over Time?

Blue obsidian, like other forms of volcanic glass, maintains its color consistency over time. However, exposure to certain environmental conditions can potentially alter the intensity and hue of its unique blue shade.