Crystal Encyclopedia

Choose a letter, pick a stone from the list, and read about it: what it is made of, how hard it is, what it looks like, what it has traditionally been said to do, and how to look after it.

450 minerals

Silver Sheen Obsidian

The Moonlit Scryer's Glass

About the stone

Silver Sheen Obsidian crystal
Photo: James St. John, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The reflective layered silver in this stone was formed by air bubbles lining up in layers, as lava flowed and cooled into this volcanic glass. Like all Obsidian, it is amorphous, without geometric structure. Found in many localities around the world, the biggest producers are Oregon and Mexico.

Mineral data

  • Chemical composition: Silver Sheen Obsidian is natural volcanic glass made mostly of amorphous silicon dioxide, SiO2, whose silvery sheen comes from layers of tiny gas bubbles lined up as the lava flowed.
  • Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale.
  • Color: Dark green to black with a reflective silver sheen from aligned bubble inclusions.
  • Specific gravity: 2.6-2.65 g/cm3
  • Refractive index: 1.450-1.550

Metaphysical data

Silver Sheen Obsidian, recognized for the moonlike silver layers in dark glass, has been used in metaphysical practices to encourage scrying, healthy boundaries and clear thinking.

Protective Energy

  • Silver Sheen Obsidian is believed to help one build and maintain strong boundaries, which can be especially helpful when dealing with possessiveness in family members or partners.
  • It is thought to provide a strong connection to earth while allowing one to astral travel without fear of becoming lost.

Emotional Healing

  • This stone is traditionally said to sharpen the senses and enhance intuition and intellect, supporting calm and confident choices.
  • It is often used to heighten rational decision making, and psychologically to help one stay present and not disassociate.

Harmonizing Energy Centers

  • Silver Sheen Obsidian is associated with the root and third eye chakras, thought to link grounded stability with clear inner vision.
  • Working with these centers is said to let intuition rise on a solid foundation.

Zodiac Associations

  • Silver Sheen Obsidian is linked with Sagittarius, the sign of seeking and exploration, and may appeal to those who love learning and truth.
  • It is said to vibrate to the numbers 2 and 11, numbers connected with intuitive insight and balanced partnership.

Spiritual Growth

  • Silver Sheen Obsidian is a favored stone for scrying and divination, connecting to spirit guides and helping one download information from other realms.
  • Many people gaze into its silvery layers as a focus for meditation, letting images and impressions arise without forcing them.

Physical Healing

  • Silver Sheen Obsidian is not a substitute for professional medical advice; some traditions say it is beneficial for fatigue, energy drain, headaches and migraines.
  • Persistent headaches or fatigue should always be discussed with a qualified professional; the stone is only a symbolic companion.

Care and handling

Silver Sheen Obsidian is natural glass, so it is brittle and chips or cracks if dropped or struck; broken edges are very sharp. Handle carefully and keep it from small children. Clean with lukewarm water and a soft cloth, then dry it. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals. Store it where it will not knock against other stones.

Individual experiences with Silver Sheen Obsidian vary, and its effects are personal and not guaranteed. Use it with mindful intention, and let its silvery layers invite quiet, honest seeing.