Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake obsidian is a variety of obsidian — natural volcanic glass — patterned with grey-white 'snowflakes' scattered across a glossy black background. It is a favourite ornamental stone, cut into spheres, cabochons and carvings that show off the striking contrast.

What the snowflakes are

The black base is obsidian, glass formed when silica-rich lava cooled too quickly to crystallise. Over time parts of the glass begin to devitrify (slowly crystallise), and tiny radiating clusters of the mineral cristobalite grow within it — these pale grey-white spherulites are the 'snowflakes.' A snowflake obsidian is, in effect, a glass that has just begun to turn back into crystals.

Where it is found

Snowflake obsidian comes from young volcanic regions, notably the western United States (Utah, Oregon, Nevada) and other obsidian-producing areas worldwide.

For collectors and lapidaries

Crisp, well-distributed white snowflakes against deep black glass and a high polish make the best pieces. Being a glass, it should be protected from knocks that could chip its conchoidal edges.