Black Obsidian Angel Carving Natural Volcanic Glass Mineral Figurine Collectable Stone Display Crystal Angel with Certificate


£ 26.04

Black Obsidian Angel Carving – Natural Volcanic Glass Mineral Specimen

This listing features a genuine Black Obsidian Angel carving, carefully shaped
from natural obsidian, a volcanic glass formed through rapid cooling of silica-rich lava. The polished surface highlights the deep black colour and smooth glass-like texture characteristic of this natural geological material.

The angel figurine has been selected for its finish and mineral quality, creating an attractive display piece for collectors, gemstone enthusiasts, or decorative mineral displays. The photographs in this listing show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing you to view the surface polish, carving detail, and natural glassy appearance before purchase.

This crystal includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, confirming that the specimen is a genuine natural volcanic mineral. Full sizing details can be found in the listing photographs to provide an accurate reference for the dimensions of the piece.

Mineral Identification and Geological Classification

Obsidian is classified as a naturally occurring volcanic glass rather than a crystalline mineral. It forms when molten lava cools so rapidly that the atoms do not have time to arrange into a crystalline structure. The result is an amorphous solid with a smooth, glass-like texture.

Key geological characteristics include:


• Rock type: Volcanic glass
• Primary composition: Silica-rich volcanic material
• Chemical composition: Primarily silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with trace elements
• Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline)
• Hardness: Approximately 5–5.5 on the Mohs scale
• Lustre: Vitreous or glass-like
• Transparency: Typically opaque, occasionally translucent along thin edges

Because obsidian lacks a crystalline structure, it fractures with very sharp edges and smooth surfaces known as conchoidal fractures, a feature commonly seen in volcanic glass materials.

Formation Through Volcanic Activity

Black Obsidian forms during volcanic eruptions, particularly in environments where silica-rich lava cools extremely quickly. When molten lava emerges from a volcanic vent or fissure and encounters cooler air or water, it solidifies before mineral crystals can develop.

The rapid cooling process creates the distinctive properties associated with obsidian:


• Smooth glass-like surfaces
• Absence of visible crystal structures
• Sharp fracture patterns
• Uniform dark coloration

Obsidian deposits are typically associated with volcanic regions where rhyolitic lava flows occur. These environments contain magma rich in silica, which is necessary for the formation of volcanic glass.

Colour Characteristics and Natural Composition

Black Obsidian is known for its deep, uniform black colour, which forms due to the presence of trace minerals such as iron and magnesium within the volcanic material.

Natural variations may include:


• Subtle grey or smoky tones in certain lighting
• Occasional microscopic mineral inclusions
• Slight translucency along thinner edges
• Smooth reflective surfaces when polished

Because obsidian forms from molten rock rather than crystal growth, its appearance is typically consistent and glassy compared to crystalline minerals.

Angel Carving and Lapidary Craftsmanship

This specimen has been shaped into an angel figurine, a popular carving style used in decorative stone craftsmanship. Skilled lapidary artisans shape obsidian using diamond cutting tools and fine polishing techniques to achieve smooth surfaces and detailed contours.

The angel carving typically includes:


• Defined wings and body form
• Smooth polished surfaces that highlight the natural glass texture
• Balanced proportions suitable for display
• Rounded edges and refined sculptural detail

The polished finish enhances the natural reflective quality of obsidian, allowing the stone’s dark glassy surface to catch and reflect light.

Collecting and Display Appeal

Obsidian carvings are valued among mineral collectors and stone enthusiasts due to their unique geological origin and striking appearance. The combination of volcanic glass material and sculptural carving produces a distinctive decorative mineral specimen.

Collectors appreciate obsidian for:


• Its volcanic origin and geological significance
• Smooth glass-like texture
• Deep black natural colour
• Historic use in tools and ornamental objects

The angel carving shape makes this specimen well suited for display in mineral cabinets, decorative arrangements, desks, or shelves.

Cultural and Traditional Context

In various cultural traditions and crystal collecting communities, Black Obsidian is traditionally associated with protection and grounding, and angel-shaped carvings may appear in symbolic or decorative displays. These interpretations reflect cultural traditions rather than scientifically established geological properties.

Authenticity and Specimen Details


• Genuine Black Obsidian angel carving
• Material: Natural volcanic glass
• Carefully selected display specimen
• Smooth polished finish
• The exact piece shown in photographs is the item you will receive
• Full sizing reference available in listing images
• Includes Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card

Each Black Obsidian carving is produced from naturally formed volcanic glass, shaped and polished to highlight the unique geological material while preserving the natural characteristics of this distinctive volcanic stone.