Red Snowflake Obsidian
A variety of Obsidian
What is Red Snowflake Obsidian?
Red Snowflake Obsidian is the name used for a variety of obsidian that features stunning, bright, snowflake-like patterns against a dark background. This naturally occurring glass is commonly sold as tumbled stones, but it is also a popular choice for jewelry. It is often cut into beads or cabochons.
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 Red Snowflake 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.
Where to Find Red Snowflake Obsidian
Red Snowflake Obsidian is a variety of Obsidian. RockHoundR, the free-to-download rockhounding map from the Ruby Glint team, shows where collectors find obsidian in the US, with land-access notes for BLM land and national forests. Collecting is banned in national parks.
See where to find obsidianAlways check the local rules and get the landowner's permission before you collect.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Red Snowflake Obsidian in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.
- ⚠️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.
- ⚠️Red Snowflake Obsidian is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing red Snowflake Obsidian, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, red, brown, white, etc.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 5.5
- Rock tumbling
- With care
- Density
- 2.33 - 3 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO2
- Elements
- Si, O
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Red Snowflake Obsidian FAQs
How do I identify Red Snowflake Obsidian?
Red Snowflake 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 Red Snowflake Obsidian?
Red Snowflake Obsidian typically appears in Black, red, brown, white, etc.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Red Snowflake Obsidian?
Red Snowflake Obsidian has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.