Obsidian Beads (16)

Buying beads online with our bulk purchasing plan means you get affordable beads and beading supplies every time. We also have friendly and knowledgeable representatives on hand to answer any questions you might have if you need assistance.

Volcanic Origins

Obsidian beads are born in volcanoes; their unusual crystal growth, or lack thereof, is cause by extremely rapid cooling of the lava rock as it is blown out during the eruption. The name of the stone comes from Pliny’s Natural History. He called it obsian, because it looked very much like a black stone found by Obsius in Ethiopia. Obsidian is found in areas where volcanic eruptions have occurred, and large deposits are located in the Americas, Iceland, Italy, Greece and parts of Africa.

Inclusions

In its pure state, obsidian is very dark, but the color can vary depending on the amount and type of impurities that are present. Obsidian beads are mostly silicon dioxide and when they include small, white crystals, they are called snowflake obsidian. Bubbles of magnetite give the beads a rainbow sparkle. In addition to the black beads, the snowflake and rainbow varieties are also popular for obsidian jewelry.

Cutting Tools

Evidence of stone age use of obsidian has been found in many areas and the oldest date back to 700,000 BC. It was a highly prized trade item because it breaks to form a very sharp edge and was used for arrowheads, knives and axes. Because it is glass, it could also be polished and used to make mirrors. The Moai of Rapa Nui, the large heads on Easter Island, were carved with obsidian tools and large obsidian beads form the pupils of their eyes. Trials are currently underway to gain approval from the US Food and Drug Administration to make surgical scalpels out of obsidian. There is evidence that these blades lead to less scarring and fewer post-operative infections.

Stone of Truth

Obsidian jewelry can be worn as a protection against depression because it is said to block negativity. The black color of obsidian is connected to self-control and inner strength. It helps a person become focused, grounded and less likely to react from emotion. Because divination tools such as scrying mirrors and crystal balls are commonly made from obsidian, it is also known as the Stone of Truth. Obsidian reveals the truth without taking sides. In the art of Feng shui, obsidian is connected to the north area, the one that governs a person’s career or life path. A bowl of water with obsidian beads in it placed in the north of a room can help to clear obstacles from your life. Small figures carved from obsidian are useful for this, too.

Quality Beads

We carry beautiful black, as well as rainbow and snowflake obsidian beads for all of your creative projects. Find top quality beads and jewelry making supplies online at the Bead Traders.