Teardrop-shaped silver sheen obsidian cabochon with natural internal silver reflection. Mirror polished finish. Available in four sizes: approx. 13, 14, 21, and 24 mm in length. Volcanic glass for bezel setting in 925 silver and handmade pendants.
Item Details
| Mineral |
Silver Sheen Obsidian (volcanic glass, SiO₂) |
| Dimensions |
Teardrop in 4 sizes: approx. 13, 14, 21, and 24 mm in length · tolerance ±0.5 mm |
| Shape and back |
Teardrop (pear shape), flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished |
| Hardness |
5 – 5.5 Mohs — we recommend closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market (volcanic origin, no certified country) |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Item type |
Stock — several pieces available; each varies in the position and intensity of the sheen |
This specific piece
The silver sheen of silver sheen obsidian is an internal reflection phenomenon generated by microscopic layers of gas trapped during the rapid cooling of lava. These layers form sub-horizontal sheets that act as partial mirrors: when light hits at the right angle, the gas reflects a silver streak that appears to float within the mineral.
The teardrop shape takes advantage of this effect by concentrating the convergence of light in the center of the curve. With a pinpoint light source on the piece, the silver reflection appears as a bright ellipse in the upper third of the teardrop.
How silver sheen forms
Obsidian is amorphous volcanic glass — it has no crystalline structure — formed when silica-rich lava (65-75% SiO₂) cools so rapidly that atoms do not have time to arrange themselves into a crystalline network. During cooling, gases dissolved in the magma can become trapped in flat layers parallel to the flow direction.
What mounting it works for
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Bezel setting (925 silver) — With Mohs 5-5.5, obsidian is more fragile than chalcedony: a closed bezel is mandatory to protect the perimeter.
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Pendants with a light window — Silver sheen obsidian works best when lighting comes from above.
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Wire wrap — The teardrop shape is natural for wire wrap
Obsidian in history and archaeology
Obsidian was one of the first long-distance exchange materials in human history: cores of Anatolian obsidian (source: Göllü Dag) have been found at Neolithic sites more than 1,000 km away.
In crystal tradition, black obsidian is associated with protection and deep grounding. The silver variety adds connotations of mental clarity and reflection: it is considered the stone of introspection, of the "inner mirror" that reflects what one carries within.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine silver sheen obsidian
Genuine obsidian is amorphous (it has no crystalline structure): under magnification, the polished surface shows a homogeneous appearance without grains or cleavage planes. Real silver sheen moves with the angle of illumination: if the silver reflection is static or covers the entire surface equally, it could be a surface treatment or an imitation. Obsidian's fracture is conchoidal (shell-like), similar to glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the silver sheen natural or a treatment?
The silver sheen is a natural optical phenomenon of silver sheen obsidian, generated by micro-inclusions of gas trapped in the volcanic glass during cooling. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; no formal gemological certification.
Is obsidian fragile in daily use?
With Mohs 5-5.5, obsidian is sensitive to side impacts (conchoidal fracture). For pendant use, there is no significant risk; for daily wear rings, we recommend a high bezel and avoiding activities with a risk of impact. See jewelry care.
See also: complete cabochon collection · silversmithing supplies.
