Yes, obsidian can be used in a crystal elixir or water bottle, but precautions must be taken to prevent it from dissolving.
Obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass, is well-regarded for its striking beauty and healing properties. But how does this captivating stone interact with water? Can obsidian go in water? And what precautions should you take when caring for your obsidian crystal? Let’s unveil the answers to these intriguing questions.
Key Takeaways
- Obsidian is safe to cleanse under running water or saltwater with a lint-free cloth, but should not be placed in salt water for long periods of time.
- Obsidian can be exposed to sun and tap water briefly, Prolonged exposure may affect its properties and appearance.
- Alternatives such as smoke cleansing, sound cleansing and selenite charging exist as safer ways to cleanse obsidian crystals. It is important take precautions when using crystal elixirs containing obsidian.
Is Obsidian Water Safe?
Although obsidian contains a high iron content, the likelihood of it rusting when immersed in water is relatively low. Even though it’s admired for its healing properties, like a few other crystals, it demands proper care to maintain its quality. One might wonder, is it safe for obsidian to go in water?
Cleansing obsidian under running water or salt water is safe and applicable for softer stones as well. However, don’t be too harsh! Use a lint-free cloth for manual cleaning, gently wiping away any dust or grime. It’s also wise to keep your obsidian away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, storing it in a cool, dry location.
Can Obsidian Go In Salt Water?
Caution is advised when using salt water with obsidian. Submerging obsidian in salt water may cause the crystals to dissolve and weaken the structure that binds them together, increasing the likelihood of cracks and breaks. If you have raw obsidian, avoid placing it in salt water as the salt can build up and cause the stone to fracture.
To preserve the appearance of black obsidian, avoid salt water or using rock salt for cleansing. The effects of salt water on both raw and polished obsidian remain disputed, so cautious use and further investigation before immersion are recommended.
Can Obsidian Go In Tap Water?
As for tap water, rest assured, obsidian can tolerate exposure to it. However, it’s not recommended to submerge it for an extended period due to its average MOHS hardness. A quick cleanse by holding it under running tap water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes should be sufficient. The pH of tap water does not have a direct effect on obsidian and it should not discolor or damage obsidian over time. But remember, avoid leaving obsidian in water for extended periods.
Can Obsidian Go In the Sun?
Sunlight has a unique relationship with obsidian. Here are some key points to note:
- Sunlight can cause a change in the color of black obsidian, but it’s not harmful.
- Direct sunlight does not have a significant effect on the color variations of obsidian, a type of volcanic glass.
- However, prolonged exposure to sunlight may lead to some fading or discoloration over time.
Exposing obsidian to sunlight can be beneficial for charging, but it should not be left in direct sunlight for more than 4 hours as it may cause fading. Morning sun is best for a longer exposure.
Can Obsidian Go In Salt?
Salt and obsidian, on the other hand, don’t mix well. Salt can cause gradual erosion to the stone’s structure, making it even more fragile. Additionally, salt may lead to chemical reactions with the elements of obsidian.
While obsidian is composed mostly of silica (SiO2) with trace elements, preventing a chemical reaction with salt, it’s best to avoid exposing them to saltwater to ensure their quality and longevity.
Obsidian and Water: The Basics
Examining the relationship between obsidian and water more closely, obsidian is a potent healing crystal reputed to dispel negativity and foster clarity. It can be used as an accessory and combined with other energetic minerals. Its Mohs Hardness Scale value of 5.5 indicates that it is sufficiently hard to prevent deterioration, making it generally safe to place in water.
However, if obsidian is left in water for a prolonged period, it can alter the appearance and properties of the stone. Using running water is a highly recommended way to cleanse obsidian. Leave obsidian in running water for a few minutes for cleansing.
In addition to the Mohs hardness scale, other features and facets of a few crystals, including soft crystals, should be taken into consideration, such as any additional elements present, sharp edges, or other sensitivities that may make them unsuitable for contact with water.
Short-Term Exposure
For those seeking to cleanse obsidian or simply wondering if their precious snowflake obsidian can go in water, the answer is – generally, yes. Obsidian is resilient and can endure short-term exposure to clean or filtered water without significant damage.
Yet, as with all things, moderation is key. Even a brief encounter between obsidian, a soft stone, and water may result in the development of a hydration rind on its surface. This weathering, while subtle, is a stark reminder of the stone’s vulnerability.
Furthermore, exposure, even if momentary, might result in the dulling or loss of shine in obsidian over time. More concerning, perhaps, is the potential for sharp edges to become more prominent. Thus, while a quick rinse might seem harmless, it’s essential to remember that even fleeting contact with water may have lasting effects.
Long-Term Exposure
The story takes a slightly different turn when we consider long-term water exposure. Prolonged submersion can lead to the formation of a hydration layer on obsidian, a process sometimes used for cleansing crystals. This absorption of molecular water changes the stone’s structure over time, a phenomenon used in the dating of obsidian artifacts.
However, this transformation is not without its risks. The weathering or dissolution of the obsidian surface could start to occur after a few hours of exposure. This raises the question – is it worth the risk to expose the stone to water for such a long period? The answer may lie in understanding the stone’s inherent properties.
Mohs Hardness Scale and Obsidian
The Mohs Hardness Scale, a tool used to assess the scratch resistance of minerals, plays a pivotal role in understanding obsidian’s durability. Obsidian, often considered one of the softer stones, ranks at 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This relatively soft nature does not affect its ability to absorb negative energy but makes it more susceptible to external factors.
However, the Mohs scale, while useful, does not tell the whole story. It lacks the precision to predict how a mineral, such as the obsidian crystal, will react to water exposure. This leaves us reliant on practical wisdom and cautious handling.
In the context of obsidian’s interaction with water, the Mohs scale serves as a reminder of its vulnerability. Despite being a moderately hard crystal, obsidian still requires mindful handling. Abrasive substances, harsh cleaners, and even extreme temperatures should be avoided to protect the precious stone.
Risks of Putting Obsidian in Water
Similar to any precious stone, immersing obsidian in water comes with potential risks. Water can have an impact on the chemical structure of obsidian by influencing its internal structural water content. The rate of water diffusion in obsidian is dependent on the amount of internal structural water present.
Furthermore, water inclusions can alter the look and characteristics of obsidian. So, while it’s generally safe to cleanse obsidian briefly under running water, avoid soaking it for extended periods.
Types of Obsidian and Their Water Compatibility
While we’ve been primarily discussing black obsidian, it’s worth noting that different types of obsidian may respond differently to water. Unique types of obsidian like:
- Rainbow Obsidian
- Sheen Obsidian
- Fire Obsidian
- Snowflake Obsidian
- Mahogany Obsidian
Each have their own unique properties and may react differently to water. Generally, they can be exposed to water, but submerging them for a long period of time may affect their look and features.
How to Cleanse Obsidian Safely?
We now turn our attention to alternative methods for cleansing obsidian without the use of water. Apart from using running or salt water, obsidian can be cleansed by:
- Basking it in the light of a full moon
- Exposing it to direct sunlight
- Smudging it with sage or other cleansing herbs
- Using sound, such as a singing bowl or bell, to cleanse its energy
- Burying it in rice or salt for a period of time
- Placing it next to other crystals, such as Selenite, to absorb their cleansing energy.
These methods, including smoke cleansing, sound cleansing, and selenite charging, offer a safe way to cleanse obsidian without the use of water. So, if you’re worried about potential water damage or prefer to avoid water for other reasons, these methods are a great alternative.
Smoke Cleansing
Smoke cleansing is a ritualistic practice of using smoke from a herb to energetically cleanse objects and people. Some herbs commonly employed in smoke cleansing of obsidian include:
- White sage
- Sweetgrass
- Lavender
- Blue sage
- Silver sage
- Sweet grass
- Cedar
- Juniper
- Piñon
- Black sage
- Culinary sage
- Purple sage
- Desert sage
- Frankincense
The type of herb used can influence the cleansing process and the energy that the obsidian absorbs.
Sound Cleansing
Sound cleansing uses sound vibrations to cleanse and recharge obsidian. Some effective tools for sound cleansing include:
- Tibetan singing bowls
- Singing pyramids
- Tingshaw bells
- Tuning forks
- YouTube clearing videos
These tools can help with cleansing crystals, ensuring your stones are properly cleanse crystals and recharge obsidian.
To cleanse your obsidian using a singing bowl, follow these steps:
- Position your obsidian in front of the singing bowl.
- Hold the bowl with your right hand and the stick with your left.
- Gently strike the singing bowl to emit a ringing sound.
- Allow the vibrations to cleanse the obsidian.
Selenite Charging
Charging obsidian with the help of selenite, a self-cleansing crystal, is another safe method. To charge an obsidian crystal with selenite, simply place the obsidian crystal on top of a selenite plate or near a selenite wand for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the selenite’s cleansing and charging energy to be transferred to the obsidian crystal.
The size or shape of the selenite does not impact the charging process. Selenite can be utilized in various forms, including plates, bowls, or individual pieces, to efficiently charge crystals.
How to Charge Obsidian Properly?
Preparing obsidian for use involves an important step – charging. The optimal method for charging obsidian is to place it outside during a full moon for approximately 7 hours. But there are additional ways to recharge black obsidian, such as placing it in brown rice, exposing it to moonlight, or cleansing it with sage.
Charging obsidian with positive intentions for protection and healing can enhance its healing properties.
Moonlight Charging
Moonlight charging is a process of charging obsidian under the light of the moon for the purpose of purification and energy renewal. To harness the power of the moonlight, one can simply:
- Place the obsidian crystal in direct moonlight for a few hours
- It is recommended to do this during the full or new moon phases for optimal results
- However, lunar energy from any phase can be beneficial for charging.
Exposing obsidian to moonlight can heighten its properties and energy, promoting balance and harmony within the body, as well as facilitate the release of negative energy. This process allows the obsidian to absorb negative energy more effectively.
Sunlight Charging
While sunlight can cause a change in the color of black obsidian, it’s not harmful and can be beneficial for charging. However, it’s best not to leave obsidian in direct sunlight for more than 4 hours as extended exposure can lead to fading. Morning sun is best for a longer exposure.
But as always, it’s wise to take precautions when using any method of charging, especially if it’s new to you or you’re dealing with a particularly sensitive crystal.
Intention-Setting
Intention-setting is a powerful way to enhance the benefits of obsidian. By holding the crystal in their hand and focusing on their desired intention as if it has already come to fruition, one can infuse the obsidian with their intention.
Obsidian crystals are often employed to:
- Promote balance and harmony within the body
- Eliminate negative energy
- Protect against negative energy
- Inspire self-reflection and uncovering concealed truths
Protection and healing are two intentions that can be effectively programmed into obsidian.
Caring for Your Obsidian Crystal
Maintaining your obsidian crystal does not need to be an overwhelming task. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Use a soft cloth to clean the surface of the stone.
- Consider cleansing it with Moonlight as a safe option.
- If obsidian is not cleansed, it can become overloaded with negative energies, thereby diminishing its effects.
It’s recommended to cleanse and charge obsidian at least once a month or when it feels heavier and duller than usual. Additionally, it should be cleansed and charged each time you use it for a different intention.
Caring for Obsidian Jewelry
Obsidian, be it the alluring black variant or the mesmerizing snowflake obsidian, can be crafted into stunning jewelry pieces. These pieces, each holding a piece of earth’s fiery past, require meticulous care to maintain their radiance. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth, mild dish soap, and warm water can keep these pieces looking their best.
However, care extends beyond cleaning. It’s important to avoid abrasive substances that could damage the obsidian. This includes everyday items like rock salt, which could scratch and dull the surface of the stone.
Lastly, it’s crucial to consider the unseen threats to your obsidian jewelry. Sweat and debris can diminish its luster. Regular wiping with a soft cloth can protect your obsidian jewelry from these elements, ensuring its vibrancy and longevity.
Obsidian in Crystal Elixirs and Water Bottles
Another way to reap the benefits of obsidian is by incorporating it into crystal-infused water or water bottles. Crystal elixirs are waters that are imbued with gems or crystals. The process of crafting them involves selecting, cleansing, and charging the chosen crystal(s) before placing them in water to transfer their vibrations. This results in the water taking on the energetic properties of the crystal, forming a vibrational medicine.
But remember, obsidian is a soft stone that could potentially dissolve if exposed to water. Therefore, it is recommended to utilize a crystal that is safe for direct ingestion and adhere to the necessary cleaning, cleansing, and charging methods for crystal elixirs.
Safe Types of Water for Obsidian
Most types of water, whether for cleansing or creating a crystal elixir, are generally safe for your obsidian. This includes:
- Tap water
- Distilled water
- Mineral water
- Rainwater
- Natural spring water
All of these can be used with obsidian.
However, caution should be taken when placing black obsidian in saltwater due to its hardness. To ensure the longevity of the obsidian, it is recommended to avoid sudden temperature changes when cleaning it in water.
Precautions for Using Obsidian in Crystal Elixirs
It is vital to understand that obsidian is not suitable for direct consumption in drinking water when making obsidian crystal elixirs. Therefore, when using obsidian in water bottles, it is imperative to make sure that the bottle is not exposed to extreme temperatures, has no cracks or leaks, and is securely stored.
While obsidian is generally safe to consume indirectly through water, it’s always best to take precautions and use it in a way that ensures your safety and the longevity of the crystal.
Summary
In conclusion, obsidian is a powerful crystal with numerous benefits. Although it’s generally safe to cleanse and charge obsidian with water, certain precautions should be taken to ensure its longevity. Alternative methods of charging and cleansing, like using moonlight, sunlight, or selenite, can be used to avoid potential risks. Moreover, understanding the types of obsidian and their water compatibility can help you care for your obsidian more effectively. Remember, the key to utilizing obsidian’s power to its fullest potential lies in proper care and understanding of its unique properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does obsidian fade in sunlight?
Black Obsidian and Black Onyx are safe in the sun for a few hours without fading, and Carnelian has an orange color that will not fade. Therefore, it can be concluded that obsidian does not fade in sunlight.
Can green obsidian get wet?
Green obsidian can get wet for short periods of time, however prolonged water exposure may weaken it due to its brittleness.
How can I cleanse my obsidian safely?
To cleanse your obsidian safely, try using smoke cleansing, sound cleansing or selenite charging.
Can I use obsidian in a crystal elixir or water bottle?
Obsidian can be used in a crystal elixir or water bottle, but ensure that your water bottle is not exposed to extreme temperatures, has no cracks or leaks, and is securely stored to prevent the obsidian from potentially dissolving.