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Rainbow Obsidian

Photo: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Rainbow Obsidian

Black volcanic glass with hidden bands of iridescent colour from Mexico – a joyful, protective stone.

  • ColourBlack, Rainbow bands
  • Mineral groupVolcanic glass (obsidian)
  • ChemistryMostly SiO₂
  • Hardness (Mohs)5–5.5
  • Crystal systemAmorphous
  • Where it's foundMexico (Jalisco), USA
  • ChakraRoot, Heart
  • ZodiacLibra

What is Rainbow Obsidian?

Rainbow obsidian is volcanic glass that looks black until light hits it at the right angle, revealing bands of purple, green, gold and blue. The colours come from nano-sized mineral inclusions (such as magnetite) aligned in layers as the lava flowed. The best material comes from Jalisco, Mexico.

Rainbow Obsidian astrology & birthstone

  • Zodiac signsLibra
  • Ruling planet—
  • ElementWater
  • Birthstone month—

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Rainbow Obsidian meaning & traditional properties

Rainbow obsidian is associated with joy, protection and releasing sadness in crystal traditions.

  • Joy
  • Protection
  • Release

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Rainbow Obsidian

  • Hold rainbow obsidian under a light to find its colours.

How to care for Rainbow Obsidian

Can chip; clean with water and a soft cloth.

Looking for Rainbow Obsidian?

Rainbow Obsidian isn't in our shop right now – new stock arrives regularly. In the meantime, explore similar crystals we have available or browse our full crystal collection.

  • Black Obsidian
    In our shop

    Black Obsidian

    Natural volcanic glass with razor-sharp edges – a classic protective, grounding stone.

  • Labradorite
    In our shop

    Labradorite

    Grey feldspar that flashes blue, green and gold – the 'northern lights' stone of transformation and intuition.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Rainbow Obsidian with a love & self-love ritual

A gentle heart-opening ritual for self-love, relationships and kindness.

Traditionally paired with: Rose or jasmine incense · Vanilla or rose candles · Palo santo to clear the space first

  • Clear the space with a little palo santo smoke.
  • Light a rose or vanilla candle and place your crystal in front of it.
  • Light rose or jasmine incense and write down three things you appreciate about yourself or someone you love.
  • Keep the crystal with your note, or carry it with you during the week.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Rainbow Obsidian jewellery & pendulums

Wear the energy of your favourite crystals every day – browse our handmade crystal jewellery and dowsing pendulums.

Rainbow Obsidian FAQs

What causes the rainbow in obsidian?

Layers of tiny mineral inclusions that interfere with light.

Related crystals

  • Black Obsidian
    In our shop

    Black Obsidian

    Natural volcanic glass with razor-sharp edges – a classic protective, grounding stone.

  • Gold Sheen Obsidian

    Gold Sheen Obsidian

    Black volcanic glass with a golden shimmer – a protective, insightful variety of obsidian.

  • Labradorite
    In our shop

    Labradorite

    Grey feldspar that flashes blue, green and gold – the 'northern lights' stone of transformation and intuition.

  • Snowflake Obsidian

    Snowflake Obsidian

    Black volcanic glass scattered with white 'snowflakes' of cristobalite – a stone of balance and perspective.

Sources