Where is Obsidian found?
Obsidian
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appObsidian occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Obsidian
United States
Significant deposits are found in the western United States, particularly in Oregon (Newberry Volcano, Glass Buttes), California (Glass Mountain, Mono-Inyo Craters), Idaho (Big Southern Butte), Arizona, New Mexico, and Wyoming (Yellowstone National Park).
Mexico
Extensive deposits, historically important for Mesoamerican cultures, are found in central Mexico (e.g., Pachuca, Teotihuacan sources).
Iceland
Common in areas of active volcanism, such as Hrafntinnuhraun.
Italy
Found on volcanic islands like Lipari and Sardinia.
Greece
Melos island is a historically significant source.
Turkey
Anatolia has numerous obsidian sources, important since the Neolithic period.
Japan
Hokkaido and other volcanic regions.
Kenya
Rift Valley region.
Ecuador
Andean volcanic regions.
Collecting tips
- Look in Volcanic Regions. Obsidian is exclusively found in areas with relatively recent (geologically speaking) volcanic activity, particularly where rhyolitic or dacitic lavas have erupted.
- Identify Lava Flows and Domes. Search for obsidian in the margins of lava flows, volcanic domes, and areas where volcanic glass has been eroded and transported by water.
- Check for Conchoidal Fracture. A key identifier is its characteristic conchoidal (shell-like) fracture, which produces sharp, curved surfaces. This is often visible on broken pieces.
- Observe Luster. Its distinct glassy luster is usually easy to spot. Wetting the surface can enhance the luster and make it more apparent.
- Safety Precautions. Obsidian breaks with extremely sharp edges, comparable to surgical scalpels. Handle with extreme care to avoid cuts. Wear sturdy gloves and eye protection when collecting or breaking samples. Be aware of potential hazards in volcanic terrains, such as unstable ground and sharp rocks.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Black, dark brown, dark green (rarely red, blue, or iridescent)
- Luster:
- Vitreous (glassy)
- Streak:
- White (due to its amorphous nature and high silica content)
Explore Obsidian
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.