The 13 Different Types of Obsidian And What They All Look Like

A raw Californian rainbow obsidian showing beautiful colors

Rainbow obsidian photo provided by Embodied Gems - Online Crystal Shop

Imagine a volcano erupting with hot lava, and then that lava cools down so fast that it turns into this shiny, smooth rock. That’s how obsidian is born! If you’re wondering what obsidian looks like, it’s usually deep and dark, like a piece of the night sky. But that’s not all! There are different types … Read more

Black Tourmaline vs Obsidian – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A shiny raw obsidian

Obsidian photo provided by Daniel A. Pierce

Black tourmaline and obsidian may seem like simple stones at first glance, but don’t be fooled! They each have their own secret stories, like two different books with dark covers. In this article, we’ll share with you the similarities and differences between black tourmaline and obsidian. We’ll dig into the nitty-gritty of what makes these … Read more

Obsidian vs Tourmaline – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A colorful liddicoatite tourmaline with pink, red, orange, yellow, green, and black hues

Liddicoatite tourmaline photo provided by Mineral Masterpiece

Obsidian and tourmaline might sit side by side in a collector’s cabinet, but they’re totally unique from each other. One looks like a piece of the night sky, while the other is like a rainbow trapped in a crystal. If you’re curious to know the differences between obsidian and tourmaline, you’re in for a treat! … Read more

Black Obsidian vs. Black Tourmaline – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A gorgeous black tourmaline tower

Tourmaline photo provided by EarthsMineralsInc

Even though obsidian and tourmaline are on opposite ends of the geological spectrum, they each have their unique qualities and interesting appeal. These two minerals show how many different things can be found in the Earth’s crust. Obsidian comes from volcanoes. It has a smooth, glass-like look, and its colors are mostly dark and moody. … Read more

Our 29 Favorite Sites To Find Obsidian In California in 2025

A raw and glassy black Obsidian

Obsidian is an incredible natural gemstone that showcases a mesmerizing display of colors from deep blacks to vibrant blues and greens. Its smooth, glass-like texture adds to its allure, making it a highly sought-after material for jewelry and decorative items. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Obsidian possesses metaphysical qualities, often associated with protection, grounding, and spiritual … Read more

Where And How We Found Obsidian in 2025 (Complete Guide)

A large piece of uncut obsidian found in Yellowstone National Park

If you are looking to find obsidian and haven’t had a lot of luck you just need a little guidance. This precious igneous rock isn’t always easy to find but the search can be a lot of fun! We’ve had a lot of success finding it and have some great options that just about anyone … Read more