Rainbow Obsidian
A variety of Obsidian
What is Rainbow Obsidian?
Rainbow Obsidian is a trade name for the black variety of obsidian that shows lustrous, rainbow-like layers when highly polished and exposed to bright light. The material can be carved and nicely polished; it's commonly cut into beads, cabochons, hearts, spheres, and other objects.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.450-1.550
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Isotropic
- Dispersion
- 0.01
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Rainbow Obsidian before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Rainbow Obsidian Localities Map
See where Rainbow Obsidian is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, brown, iridescent
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 5.5
- Density
- 2.35 - 2.6 g/cm³
- Streak
- Rainbow Colors
- Luster
- Vitreous
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO2
- Elements
- Si, O
Also Known As
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Rainbow Obsidian FAQs
How do I identify Rainbow Obsidian?
Rainbow Obsidian can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Black color, Vitreous luster. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Rainbow Obsidian?
Rainbow Obsidian typically appears in Black, brown, iridescent. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Rainbow Obsidian?
Rainbow Obsidian has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.