Obsidian Black Arrowhead Polished Volcanic Glass Mineral Madagascar Stone Tool

Description

Genuine Obsidian Black Arrowhead from Madagascar

This remarkable Obsidian Black Arrowhead from Madagascar is a beautifully crafted specimen of natural volcanic glass, formed through the rapid cooling of silica-rich lava. Each arrowhead is individually shaped to highlight the sharp edges and glossy, reflective surfaces that make Obsidian one of the most iconic materials in both geological and archaeological history. The specimen in the photograph is the exact one you will receive. Scale cube = 1 cm – please refer to the photos for full sizing. Every piece comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming it as a 100% genuine geological specimen.

Geological Formation and Composition

Obsidian is a natural igneous rock, technically a felsic volcanic glass, created when molten lava cools so quickly that it does not have time to crystallize. This rapid solidification results in a smooth, glassy texture and conchoidal fracture, producing edges sharper than steel when chipped. Madagascar’s volcanic regions are renowned for producing some of the world’s most visually striking Obsidian, notable for its deep black coloration, mirror-like polish, and subtle reflective hues.

Composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), with traces of iron and magnesium oxides, Obsidian forms at the margins of rhyolitic lava flows, domes, and volcanic plugs. These environments allow the molten rock to cool in thin, fast-moving flows, generating glass instead of crystalline minerals. The resulting material is rich in natural energy, aesthetically beautiful, and geologically fascinating.

Morphology and Historical Context

The arrowhead shape of this specimen pays homage to the earliest human uses of Obsidian. Ancient civilizations across the globe — including early peoples of Madagascar, Africa, and beyond — utilized this volcanic glass for tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects due to its ability to produce extremely sharp cutting edges. Obsidian blades and arrowheads were prized by early cultures for hunting and craftsmanship, and today, they stand as symbols of humankind’s first mastery of natural materials.

The conchoidal fracture pattern visible on this piece demonstrates the mineral’s natural brittleness and glass-like cleavage. When flaked correctly, Obsidian produces razor-sharp edges used historically for surgical instruments, ritual items, and precision cutting tools. This hand-shaped arrowhead embodies that same ancient technique, refined for modern collectors and geology enthusiasts.

Scientific and Collectible Significance

From a geological perspective, Obsidian represents one of nature’s purest examples of rapid mineral formation — a frozen moment of volcanic activity. Its non-crystalline structure is amorphous, making it distinct from other igneous rocks like basalt or andesite. In mineral classification, Obsidian belongs to the tectosilicate family, though it is technically mineraloid due to its glassy, non-crystalline nature.

Madagascar’s Obsidian is especially valued for its exceptional purity and density, often displaying deep jet-black coloration with a glassy finish. These specimens are frequently used in geology education, lapidary work, and metaphysical collections. Many enthusiasts appreciate Obsidian’s grounding energy and connection to Earth’s fiery origins.

Authenticity and Display

This is a carefully chosen Obsidian Black Arrowhead Mineral from Madagascar, fully natural and unenhanced except for expert shaping and polishing. The arrowhead displays the deep, uniform black tone characteristic of high-quality volcanic glass and has been skillfully flaked and finished to reveal its natural brilliance.

Each specimen is unique, with subtle variations in shape and sheen that make your piece entirely one-of-a-kind.

Scale cube = 1 cm – please see the photos for accurate size and detail.

All of our Fossils and Minerals are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. This stunning Obsidian arrowhead is ideal for collectors, geology enthusiasts, educational display, or as a striking natural art piece showcasing the timeless beauty of Earth’s volcanic creations.