How Much Is Obsidian Worth?
Also known as Volcanic Glass
Obsidian — natural volcanic glass — is abundant and inexpensive: raw chunks and tumbled stones sell for $2–$20, carved spheres, arrowheads, and knapped blades for $10–$60, and large carvings or sought-after varieties (rainbow, fire, sheen, snowflake) for $30–$200+. Plain black obsidian is very common, so value comes mostly from optical varieties and workmanship: 'rainbow' and 'fire' obsidian that flash color from nanoparticle layers, golden/silver 'sheen' obsidian, and well-knapped or carved pieces. Because obsidian is glass, it conchoidally fractures to razor edges, which makes quality carving and knapping a meaningful part of a piece's worth.
Check your specific obsidian
Upload a photo for an instant ID — then unlock its estimated value and an authenticity check.
Obsidian value by type
| Type | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Raw / tumbled | $2 – $20 |
| Carved / knapped pieces | $10 – $60 |
| Spheres & large carvings | $25 – $150 |
| Rainbow / fire / sheen | $30 – $200+ |
Educational ballparks for typical specimens — not a formal appraisal.
What drives obsidian value
- Variety. Rainbow, fire, sheen, and snowflake obsidian beat plain black.
- Optical effect. Bright, full-coverage color flash or sheen raises value.
- Workmanship. Skilled carving, knapping, and polish add value.
- Size. Larger clean carvings and spheres are pricier.
Is your obsidian real?
Obsidian is itself a natural glass, so 'is it real glass' isn't the question — manufactured glass slag or 'goldstone' (man-made copper-fleck glass) is sometimes confused with it. Natural obsidian shows conchoidal (shell-like) fracture, may contain bubbles or crystallite 'snowflakes,' and lacks the regular sparkle of goldstone.
Full obsidianreal-or-fake guide & at-home tests →FAQ
- Is obsidian worth anything?
- Plain black obsidian is cheap, but rainbow, fire, and sheen varieties plus skilled carvings reach $30–$200+.
- Is obsidian just glass?
- Yes — it's natural volcanic glass. Its value is about variety, optical effects, and craftsmanship rather than rarity of the material.