Snowflake Obsidian
The Winter Stone of Mindful Patterns
About the stone
Unlike other Obsidians, Snowflake Obsidian cooled slowly enough that inclusions of Cristobalite were able to form the snowflake looking sprays of grey/white present in the stone, called Spherulites. Found in Oregon, Utah & Argentina.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Snowflake Obsidian is natural volcanic glass made mostly of amorphous silicon dioxide, SiO2, with white to gray spherulites (snowflake-like sprays) of cristobalite, a high-temperature form of silica.
- Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Dark green to black with white to gray snowflake-shaped spots.
- Specific gravity: 2.6-2.65 g/cm3
- Refractive index: 1.450-1.550
Metaphysical data
Snowflake Obsidian, recognized for its white snowflake patterns against dark glass, has been used in metaphysical practices to encourage focus, balance and a mindful look at habitual patterns.
Grounding and Focusing Energy
- Snowflake Obsidian is believed to connect the root chakra to the crown chakra, the earth to the sky, and our physical bodies to our etheric bodies.
- It is thought to focus the minds of those who tend to wander, grounding daydreamers and anyone who mentally escapes into their own worlds.
Emotional Healing
- This stone is traditionally said to help one recognize unhealthy patterns of thinking, facilitating change and growth with patience and honesty.
- It is often used to strengthen resolve and to help break bad habits and addictions, always best alongside qualified support.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Snowflake Obsidian is associated with the root and crown chakras, thought to bridge the foundation of the body with the highest point of awareness.
- Working with these two poles is said to bring physical and spiritual life into an easier agreement.
Zodiac Associations
- Snowflake Obsidian is linked with Capricorn and Virgo, and may appeal to those who value discipline, order and thoughtful self-improvement.
- It is said to vibrate to the number 8, a number connected with balance, power and the results of steady work.
Spiritual Growth
- Snowflake Obsidian is believed to aid in past life recall and awareness of karmic debts in this life and others, helping one understand their purpose on this plane.
- Many people use it in reflection on habits and patterns, finding that seeing a pattern clearly is the first step to changing it.
Physical Healing
- Snowflake Obsidian is not a substitute for professional medical advice; some traditions say it benefits arthritis, joint pain, osteoporosis, tendonitis and carpal tunnel.
- Joint and bone concerns deserve proper medical care; the stone is only a symbolic companion that may bring comfort.
Care and handling
Snowflake Obsidian is natural glass, so it is brittle and chips or cracks if dropped or struck; broken edges can be 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 Snowflake Obsidian vary, and its effects are personal and not guaranteed. Use it with mindful intention, and let its snowflakes remind you that each pattern can be seen and gently changed.