igneous
Obsidian Fetish Carving with Turquoise Inlay
Volcanic Glass with Turquoise (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Obsidian) / 5-6 (Turquoise); Color: Jet black with blue-green inlay; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal (shell-like curves)
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Jet black with blue-green inlay
- Luster
- Vitreous/glassy
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Obsidian) / 5-6 (Turquoise); Color: Jet black with blue-green inlay; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal (shell-like curves)
Formation & geological history
Formed through the rapid cooling of silica-rich lava which prevents crystal growth. Turquoise is a secondary mineral formed by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering of pre-existing minerals.
Uses & applications
Aesthetic and spiritual purposes, specifically as a Zuni-style fetish carving (often representing a wolf or coyote). Used in jewelry and art collections.
Geological facts
Black obsidian was used by ancient Mesoamericans for surgical blades because it can be fractured to an edge many times sharper than a steel scalpel. The turquoise 'heartline' arrow represents the breath of life.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic glassy luster and conchoidal fracture patterns visible on the surface. These carvings are common in the Southwestern United States, particularly New Mexico.
