Where is Obsidian found?
Volcanic glass
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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 areas like Pachuca, Hidalgo, and near Teotihuacan.
Ecuador
Volcanic regions in the Andes contain obsidian deposits.
Japan
Known for its obsidian deposits, particularly on Hokkaido and Honshu islands.
Turkey
Anatolia has historically significant obsidian sources, used since the Neolithic period.
Greece
The island of Milos is a famous ancient source of obsidian.
Italy
Sardinia and Lipari islands are known for obsidian.
Iceland
Volcanic regions contain obsidian, often associated with rhyolitic eruptions.
New Zealand
North Island volcanic zones have obsidian occurrences.
Collecting tips
- Look for Volcanic Regions. Obsidian is exclusively found in areas with recent (geologically speaking) felsic volcanic activity. Focus your search in regions known for rhyolitic lava flows or domes.
- Examine Outcrops and Stream Beds. Look for dark, glassy fragments in weathered outcrops, scree slopes, or stream beds downstream from volcanic sources. Its distinctive conchoidal fracture is a key indicator.
- Check for Associated Minerals. Obsidian often occurs with other volcanic rocks like rhyolite, pumice, and tuffs. The presence of these can indicate a potential obsidian source.
- Safety Precautions. Obsidian edges can be extremely sharp, comparable to surgical scalpels. Handle specimens with care, preferably wearing thick gloves, to avoid cuts. Always obtain permission before collecting on private land or in protected areas.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Black, dark brown, dark green (rarely red/gold sheen)
- Luster:
- Vitreous (glassy)
- Streak:
- White (due to its amorphous nature and high silica content)
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