Handcrafted ring with a mahogany obsidian cabochon set in a copper base, hand-mounted. The coppery and mahogany flecks characteristic of this variety of volcanic glass float on a deep black background, creating the visual effect of constellations in stone. A unique collector's item.
Item details
| Mineral |
Mahogany obsidian (volcanic glass with iron and magnesium oxides) |
| Size |
Size 20 EU |
| Stone dimensions |
Freeform, ±22×16 mm — unique uncalibrated piece |
| Shape and back |
Freeform, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished |
| Metal |
Copper |
| Stone origin |
Mexico / United States (volcanic areas) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item type |
Unique handcrafted item |
This specific piece
Mahogany obsidian does not have the uniformity of standard black: inclusions of iron and magnesium oxides create spots with tonal variations ranging from mahogany to brick red depending on the incident light. The distribution of these inclusions is random in each block, so no two cabochons are alike.
The copper setting naturally complements the warmth of the mahogany flecks. The copper adds chromatic coherence to the whole without visually competing with the dominant black of the stone.
Obsidian in lapidary tradition
Obsidian is one of the oldest materials in human history used as a tool: it has been used since the Paleolithic for projectile points, blades, and mirrors. Mesoamerican civilizations (Aztec, Mayan, Olmec) considered it sacred: they used it in rituals, made divination mirrors, and employed it as surgical material, as its edge can be sharper than modern steel. The mahogany variety owes its bicolor to iron oxides trapped during the solidification of magma, which add coppery bands to the base black. In crystal tradition, mahogany obsidian is associated with grounding and the balance between protection and healing.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes mahogany obsidian from common black obsidian?
Mahogany obsidian contains areas with a concentration of iron and magnesium oxides that create the coppery and reddish spots. Pure black obsidian has a more homogeneous composition without these oxide inclusions.
Is obsidian fragile?
As a glass, obsidian has no cleavage but does have conchoidal fracture. It is resistant to surface scratches (Mohs 5-5.5) but can chip upon direct impact. Remove the ring during physical activities.
Is copper suitable for mounting obsidian?
Yes. Obsidian has a similar hardness to other minerals in copper rings, and pressure setting is technically suitable. The contrast between the black of the stone and the copper is visually complementary.
Is the obsidian dyed?
Untreated. The black and mahogany flecks are completely natural colors of the volcanic glass. No formal gemological certification; statement based on observation.
How do I care for this ring?
Clean with a soft dry cloth. Obsidian is susceptible to ultrasonic vibrations — avoid. Do not submerge in hot water. Complete guide in jewelry care.
See also our collection of handcrafted rings.
